Creativity, Wellness, and Staying Centered as We Enter 2025
Finding Peace and Purpose Amid Uncertainty
As we inch closer to the new year, it’s hard to ignore the sense of uncertainty that continues to linger around us. There’s a saying: Wherever the United States of America goes, the world goes too. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, the reverberations of last week’s events caused a seismic shift that was felt across the globe. Take it from me — as I sit in one of the most relaxed, culturally vibrant places imaginable, a place that loves to celebrate life, even here the uncertainty was palpable. People have been asking me what it all means and what we should expect next. It has reminded me of the importance of grounding myself even deeper and setting my face like flint. Instead of letting these moments overwhelm me, I’m choosing to use this time to reset, refocus, and draw strength from within. I’d love to share some of the wellness practices and projects that have been helping me — and hopefully inspire you to do the same.
My days now start earlier than ever, with a 4 a.m. wake-up call. It might sound daunting, but those quiet, early hours have become my sanctuary. One of my greatest joys is taking early morning walks where I can watch the sun rise over the crest of the mountain ridges. It’s a breathtaking sight that fills me with gratitude and sets a calming tone for the day. During these walks, I listen to mindful speakers or uplifting music to keep my mindset positive and focused. This new rhythm has helped me face the unknown with a clearer mind and a stronger sense of purpose. It’s a small shift, but it has made a world of difference in how I show up for myself and others.
I’ve also made a conscious decision to cut out all news from my daily routine — and this is coming from someone who loves politics, especially geopolitics, and consumes financial news and endless streams of information. Instead, I’m now journaling more and surrounding myself with positivity as much as possible. One of the little joys in my day has been lighting our IYLIA La Llama candle in my office. Its warm, soothing scent creates a peaceful environment that helps me stay centered and focused. It’s become a daily ritual that I absolutely love and one I’m excited to share with others.
In addition to creating a positive atmosphere, I’ve been gifting as much of our IYLIA Premium Rosé Non-Alcoholic Sparkling as possible. There’s something special about sharing this elegant, alcohol-free rosé — it feels like spreading a bit of joy and love, which we all need now more than ever. Whether it’s to friends, family, or colleagues, I want to share a little piece of IYLIA to brighten their day and offer a moment of celebration.
My sister often teases me about being an artist, while I’ve always seen myself as a designer — to me, design is simply creativity with a bent towards business. But alas, I must confess, I am an artist at heart. Building this business has stretched me in ways I never imagined, pushing me to explore new avenues of creativity. It’s been a beautiful journey blending art with strategy, and I’m grateful for every moment that has allowed me to express this side of myself.
Another part of my wellness routine has been rediscovering the power of meditation. Just taking a few minutes each day to sit in stillness has brought me a clarity I didn’t realize I needed. It’s during these quiet moments that I can process my thoughts and emotions, letting go of what no longer serves me. If you haven’t tried it yet, even five minutes of meditation can be a powerful tool for grounding yourself.
I’ve also started experimenting more in the kitchen. I’m as shocked as anyone who knows me that I can actually cook (lol). But there’s something deeply satisfying about preparing meals from scratch. It’s a form of self-care that connects me to the present moment. Here in Spain, every pueblo has a mercado — a farmer’s market overflowing with fresh fruits, vegetables, and produce. Everything is so fresh here, and my body is happier than ever. Plus, sharing these meals with loved ones has been a wonderful way to connect and find joy.
Physical fitness has always been important to me, but lately, I’ve been more mindful about integrating gentle, restorative practices like yoga and stretching into my routine. It’s not just about building strength; it’s about listening to my body and honoring what it needs. I’ve found that a mix of movement and rest is essential for maintaining balance, especially during stressful times.
I’ve also been focusing on cultivating gratitude. It’s easy to get caught up in the challenges and uncertainties, but taking time each day to reflect on what I’m grateful for has shifted my perspective. Whether it’s the beauty of a sunrise, the warmth of a good cup of tea, or the love of family and friends, these small moments of appreciation have a profound impact on my overall sense of well-being.
As the new year approaches, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of community. Even though the world feels more divided than ever, there’s still so much power in connecting with like-minded people and lifting each other up. Whether it’s a simple message to a friend or joining a supportive group, these small actions can make a big difference in how we feel and how we face what lies ahead.
I want to leave you with a bit of encouragement: This season of uncertainty is an opportunity to reconnect with ourselves, redefine our priorities, and cultivate habits that will carry us forward. Let’s embrace this time as a chance to grow stronger, nurture our well-being, and set a positive tone for 2025.
With warm wishes for your wellness journey,
Layla-Joy