In The Flow: My Writing Process
How I discover my voice through writing infused with intuition and nature's wisdom.
Aligning evermore with the purpose of Creation, we witness the beautiful synchronicities that bring meaning to everyday living. True intention anchors us in a higher state of perception and recognition. The more we aim toward what we really want, the better we manifest on all levels. ~33 Creation, The Art of Flow by Yolanda Lidia Valdés, Ph.D.
Self-Discovery Through Expression
My writing journey began as a quest for self-expression and understanding. For years, I’ve maintained a sacred journal, a sanctuary for my thoughts, observations, poetry, and reflections. This inner world of mine yearned for a voice, a deeper comprehension of life’s mysteries.
Growing up Catholic and continuing through high school, I later embarked on a spiritual path at 19 years of age, embracing Buddhism, meditation, yoga, and Qigong. This harmonious balance of academics and spirituality brought solace during my college years.
As I delved deeper into my spiritual practice, I discovered a profound connection with nature. Sitting in parks, I would feel the gentle whispers of trees offering guidance and wisdom. I experienced an unparalleled sense of wholeness, unity, and freedom. It was during this transformative period that I began intuitively writing, allowing my inner world to flow onto the page. Nature’s harmony became my spiritual teacher and the embodiment of flow, where every element effortlessly converges in a symphony of balance and beauty.
The pandemic presented an opportunity for introspection and immersion in nature. I spent countless hours outdoors, bathing in the sun and absorbing the beauty and wisdom of the natural world. My journal became a treasure collection of observations, intuitive insights, and reflections. This period of introspection culminated in the creation of my book, The Art of Flow: 40 Reflections on Being Fully Present. Writing this book was a therapeutic experience, helping me navigate the challenges of divorce, finish my PhD and emerge stronger, wiser, and more connected to my inner self.
Glance at the sun. See the moon and the stars.
Gaze at the beauty of earth’s greening.
Now, think. What delight God gives to humankind
with all these things. All nature is at the disposal of humankind.
We are to work with it. For without we cannot survive. ~Hildegard of Bingen
Cosmic Tapestry: Weaving Words from the Wild
Through the ancient art of word-weaving, I tap into the universe’s whispers, allowing the wisdom of the wild to flow through me, revealing the hidden patterns and rhythms that connect us all.
As I wander along the beach at dawn, the gentle voice of nature weaves a tapestry of inspiration within me. I ponder why this time holds such significance, and I’m reminded that many spiritual traditions consider early rising and dawn sacred for growth, reflection, and divine connection. With each step, I breathe in the vastness of the ocean, sky, and sand, and a deep sense of gratitude swells in my heart. In this intimate space, I sit, observe, and listen, allowing the natural world’s rhythms to guide me. As I immerse myself in the beauty and majesty of the environment, time stands still, and words, symbols, and phrases begin to flow effortlessly, a testament to the interconnectedness of all things.
In these moments, my heart expands, and I feel the universe’s embrace, anchoring me in a sense of oneness and belonging.
My inspiration knows no bounds, striking me in the most unexpected places. While the beach holds a special spot in my heart, I am blessed knowing that inspiration can be found in the serene greenery of a park. At the same time, meditating, a conversation with a client or colleague will ignite a spark, revealing a fresh perspective that demands to be written down. Other times, a movie, music, or book will resonate deeply, prompting me to reflect on my own experiences and emotions. Wherever I am, I’ve learned to stay open to the soft musings of inspiration, allowing them to guide me and shape my writing.
I am deeply in love with intuitive writing, where there are no constraints of logic or reason, and writing becomes an intimate dance of creativity weaving together threads of insight, imagination, and wisdom. I tap into the depths of my being uncovering hidden truths and embracing the beauty of the unknown.
Writing doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s a collection of words that emerge from the heart and sense a creative spark within me. At times, my path is between light and darkness. Every day is an opportunity to peel back the layers and uncover new facets of myself like a forest yielding its secrets to a curious explorer. I need silence and alignment, which are my pathways to connecting with the deeper parts of myself.
In the initial stages, it’s about allowing the thoughts and feelings to flow freely, without judgment or critique. Later, I spent several days refining the message and ensuring it resonated with my inner truth. For me, the beauty of writing lies in its raw, unfiltered expression—a release, a letting go, and a connection with what’s most sacred.
In this sense, my writing is a personal odyssey of self-discovery and growth. I find joy in unearthing fresh experiences and deepening my understanding of my terrain, knowing that I write from a place of deep listening and allowing flow.
Thank you for reading this week’s The Art of Flow. If you enjoy reading, please press ❤️ to like and to support my work.
May the flow be with you now and always!
Yoli
Thank you, Amanda.
I took a break from work this afternoon by strolling at the parks (2 parks nearby) and suddenly a poem formed in my mind, I thanked God for the strike of inspiration and wrote it down. It's by no means perfect but it's genuine. Truly resonating with your essay here, Yoli!