The Dance of Beauty

Beauty is only skin deep.

Or so we’ve been told.

What role does aesthetics play in our lives?

Anyone else playing the office shuffle? Juggling both parents working from home, and home-schooling is not completely out of the norm for us but has been somewhat of an attitude adjustment for our family like many.

Has being “quarantined” left you feeling confined to your prison cell? or your haven?

Our mindset can be a huge part in how we interpret our circumstances, but there’s another underlying factor that may be at play here, that we may not even realize.

Many business gurus say, it’s a waste of time. Is that true? Does aesthetic quality really matter? Many graphic designers and real estate investors I'm sure, would argue otherwise.

Maslow altered his original hierarchy of needs to insert this category, realizing the importance that stimulating a sense of beauty, and immersing ourselves in surroundings pleasing to the eye, had in motivating us toward self-actualization.

Finding a place in your home, that in konmarie terms sparks joy and provides our own little slice of heaven; whether it’s a whole room, a closet; yes, #beentheredonethat, or the bathtub, allows us to re-juvenate and reframe our perspective; especially in those Calgon, take me away moments. Having a serene, place to relax solo, renew, create, dance, dream, pray that reflects me, accepts me just as I am, and always has “welcome” on the mat, for this Venus girl, is a non-negotiable.

It doesn’t have to be fancy and formal, unless of course, that’s your style. Understated simplicity, resourcefulness, and creativity in designing your sanctuary can feel enormously sophisticated and empowering. For instance, there’s nothing lacking in quality, elegance, or practicality when it comes to the simplicity of Scandinavian design and the comfort of Hygge style. It must be the Dane in my blood, to me it has all the Taurean charm of practical, sensual, and cozy to tame this Bull.

Fuel your self-expression by infusing your space with sensual scents, trying less-toxic alternatives like quality essential oils to diffuse instead of burning candles; adding textured touches with live plants and chunky knit throws; and selecting naturally handcrafted hand-be-downs that speak your #lifedancersignature.

In the Lifedance Sanctuary, I’ve just created a simple display tower out of wooden crates, so I have easier access to some of my favorite things. Thanks to @wfrancisdesign, I’m bringing a little of the outdoors inside these winter months, with a wall hanging that reminds me of my home, the North Carolina mountains.

When it comes to the depth of character, balance of symmetry, and warmth of a space, I’d rather invest the heavy spending in myself. Beauty from the inside-out.

What do you envision for your space? What’s one thing you can do to shed a little inner radiance, illuminating your space? It may just be the finishing touch you’ve been looking for.

What’s are your thoughts on beauty and aesthetic design? I’d love to hear your takeaways. Share the sacred space you’re creating in your #lifedance.