Shadow Seekers’ Dispatch, Ed. 4
In This Edition
Index
Cultivating Confidence and Your Inner Light
As hard as it is to imagine while sitting here in biting cold Indiana, February is a month of rekindling warmth—not just in nature, as winter loosens its grip, but within ourselves. With Imbolc marking the first stirrings of spring and International Boost Self-Esteem Month urging us to reclaim our worth, this is the perfect time to explore what fuels our inner light.
But here’s the truth: self-esteem isn’t a switch you flip on. It’s a process of uncovering, nurturing, and rebuilding belief in yourself—especially if life has cast long shadows over your confidence.
Embracing the Light and the Dark
The theme of light and rebirth is beautifully reflected in Imbolc, the ancient festival celebrating the return of warmth and inspiration. Traditionally, people honored Brigid, the goddess of healing, poetry, and transformation. Fire and candlelight symbolized hope and renewal, much like the first buds breaking through the frost.
But light only holds meaning because of the shadows it casts. And that’s where our real work begins—by looking at what dims our confidence, holds us back, or whispers self-doubt when we try to step forward.
Instead of fighting these shadows, what if we used them as fuel for our creative fire?
Art as a Tool for Self-Esteem
Art isn’t just about expression; it’s about recognition. Each brushstroke, scribble, or stitch is a declaration: This is who I am. This is what I see. This is what matters. And when you allow yourself to create freely—without perfectionism or self-judgment—you tap into something powerful: your unfiltered self.
If your self-worth has taken a hit, try this:
✨ Create a Personal Power Symbol – Paint, sketch, or sculpt a symbol that represents your strength. Maybe it’s a phoenix, a spiral, or something abstract that only you understand.
🎭 Layer Your Shadows into Art – Start with a base that represents how you feel. Add another layer that embodies the confidence you want to step into.
🔥 Turn Imperfection into Meaning – Let go of the need for “pretty” or “perfect.” Every smudge, uneven line, or wild color is part of your unapologetic presence.
Because the real magic of self-esteem isn’t about becoming flawless—it’s about standing firm in who you are, even when the shadows try to tell you otherwise.
From the Shadow Seekers’ Journal
The Sun Within: Archetypes of Inner Light and Confidence
Rediscover your inner light with 8 powerful archetypes that inspire confidence, creativity, and resilience. Embrace your radiance and shine unapologetically.
Tear It Apart: Rip Frustration to Shreds for Art
Tear it apart to find calm! Learn how to turn frustration into art with a simple exercise that helps you break it down and rebuild your peace.
Your Trauma Healing Journey: Making Peace with Contradictions
The trauma healing journey is messy and full of contradictions. Discover how to embrace opposites within you and find harmony on your path to healing.
Top 10 U.S. Stones and Herbs for Fresh Starts
Explore the symbolism of beginnings with the best gemstones and herbs for growth, clarity, and self-awareness, plus tips to bring these tools into daily life.
Your Guardians for Confidence
Confidence isn’t linear. Some days, you radiate assurance. Other days, self-doubt sneaks in. But what if you had a physical, handcrafted reminder of your strength—something charged with energy meant to stand guard over your confidence?
That’s exactly what a custom You-Do-You Voodoo™ Art Doll can do. When the shadows creep in, your doll transforms them into light for you.
✨ Crafted with gemstones, herbs, and written intentions specific to your needs.
✨ Designed to hold space for resilience, self-love, and empowerment
✨ Completely one-of-a-kind—because so are you!
Want a talisman for your inner light? Request your custom doll today.
Symbols of Light
Tools for Emotional Strength
Building self-esteem isn’t just about mindset—it’s about setting up reminders of your power. Certain materials have been used for centuries as symbols of resilience, confidence, and self-trust. Here are a few to incorporate into your space or art:
🌟 Citrine – The “success stone” known for boosting confidence and personal power.
🍃 Lemongrass – A fresh, uplifting scent that clears negativity and enhances clarity.
🌿 Chamomile – A gentle yet potent herb for calm, courage, and self-nurturing.
Use these in your art, rituals, or self-care practices—because every bit of intention matters when reclaiming your self-worth.
‘Til Next Time
If you take anything from this month’s dispatch, let it be this:
🔥 You are worthy, even when you don’t feel it.
🔥 Your inner light doesn’t disappear—it just needs rekindling.
🔥 Every shadow you face is an invitation to create something stronger.
So light a candle, pick up your tools, and step into your power—one art journal entry at a time.
I hope you enjoyed this edition of the Shadow Seekers’ Dispatch. Remember to follow @kelliejoart on social media for updates throughout the month. The buttons to click are right below my signature. I’ll see you next time.
Warmly,
Kellie Jo Close
Artist & Author
Transforms Shadows into Light
https://kelliejoart.com | https://linktr.ee/kelliejoart
P.S. What’s one small thing you can create for yourself this month? Let me know in the contact form!