Digital Wellness Journal
I know there are so many neurological benefits to journaling by hand, buuuut…
I became so much more consistent with my practice when I started using my computer. I can’t help but prefer the speed, and the ability to tweak and craft.
If you’ve worked with me recently, you already know my favorite tool is Airtable. It’s a relational database you can design and customize, with powerful capabilities for scale and reporting.
I really I wanted to build a journaling practice where I could track different areas of my life easily and with consistency, so I could have a better grasp on patterns and correlations.
So, I ended up designing a Digital Wellness Journal using Airtable.
The Setup
As I study Human Design, I am leaning into my Reflector Type and Strategy. Tracking each New and Full Moon can help with Reflectors’ process, so, I decided to shape my Wellness Journal on a 2-week cadence to align with these cycles.
I use The Pattern app to receive notifications for each New and Full Moon. I love that the app provides the topical sign, theme, and journal prompts.
Then, I built and customized the rest of the template around other aspects of my lifestyle:
Mindsets & Management
I wanted to have quick, standardized options to keep tabs on my Mindsets (Physical, Purpose, Social, Resources, etc.) as well as my Management (Stress, Sleep, Food, Workouts, etc).
Skincare
I also created a detailed section for Skincare, outlining the products I’m using, along with all other factors like getting a Facial or Travel. The relationship each of us has to our skin is no joke; we’re all so different. And the internet/Sephora have sent me trial-and-error spiraling for years.
Creativity
At the end, I added a section for Creativity. I use this time to hop on Pinterest and create monthly moodboards (another area inspired by my Human Design Cognition, Outer Vision). I also track a list of Joys in this section; it’s satisfying the jot down simple pleasures in one space.
The Beauty & Benefits
1: Evolving Template — All of these areas I want to track remain in place when I open the template every 2 weeks. I have the ability to add and remove components whenever.
2: Tracking Trends — After a few months of journaling, I’ve been able to take a look and assess any patterns. Whether it’s product changes in skincare…the influence of travel…or the general Management. I have a much better, tangible grasp on “all the things.”
3: Built-In Mindfulness — It’s hard to fit in moments for mindfulness, and this makes it easier. I love grabbing my laptop and finding an inspiring space to fill it out, like a vibey coffee shop. It usually ends up being a highlight of my weeks.
Getting intentional about what you want to track —and carving out a space for mindfulness in a way that feels easy —is a gift. And Airtable is a great tool to reach for, whether you’re tracking for work or personal.
Last Year’s Film
One of my favorite parts about living in the Pacific Northwest is the beautiful transition between seasons. I love how nature unifies the community, and the strong collective feelings.
Shot on film in Oregon and California // 2022–23
Synchronicities
In 2022, I lost my brother Brooks, and began what feels like my second life.
A month into my journey with grief, I was back in Portland for the first time on my own. I was feeling desperate for a little inspiration when I decided to take a walk in my neighborhood. With fall colors lining the streets, I came across a local art shop I hadn’t visited before, and told myself I really wanted a sign — something specific.
I perused the whole shop, until I reached the very back and noticed a print that stopped me in my tracks.
My brother was the biggest basketball fan; a loyal Sacramento Kings fan since birth, and always sporting Nikes. He was wearing his grey high tops the day that he died, and this pair of shoes holds precious significance for our family.
The art series included a title:
“With death comes life.”
I bought the print. The store owner told me it had just arrived, and may be limited edition.
I ended up reaching out to the artist, Isaac Telles of Forty7th Studio, and shared my experience. It touched me to learn he was a high school basketball coach in addition to being an artist, based in New Mexico. Isaac was also moved, and ended up creating a special commissioned version of the art for Brooks.
This story is just the beginning of countess synchronicities that have shown up on my path over the last two years.
I continue to stay eyes-open for them, and welcome the moments of connection.
They are loud and clear, awe-inspiring, and ultimately: felt.
I look forward to sharing more over the course of my life, with the intention of provoking thought. There will be no certainty, or ability to bring back loved ones lost. But, I’ve found living with a new sense of openness and curiosity to be more rewarding. I have deep admiration for those with the courage to play, and express the magic and mystery of what we see and feel. 🤍
After receiving the commissioned art, I didn’t connect with Isaac for another 10 months until he reached in June of the following year:
