Nichole Manuro

My journey into mindfulness art has been deeply personal and transformative. I'm a Gen X-er, born in 1975, and I've known stillness in a way that many people today don't experience. In my 30s, I faced a major health challenge when I had to have both my hips and both my knees replaced, which put me in what I call a standstill throughout that decade and into my 40s as I recovered. But I've been a long-time practitioner of meditation for over 20 plus years, and art has always been my thing since I can remember as a child. After coming out of my hibernation, I noticed how overstimulated and disconnected people have become, especially kids, with all the technology advancements. I worked as a cardiographic technician in healthcare for most of my life, but this new venture in mindfulness art came from wanting to lead by example. If I can overcome my setbacks, I want others to see that challenges don't define you - it's like putting pressure on coal and getting diamonds. I want people to see that setbacks are just stepping stones that create something more beautiful in your life. I'm not a master at what I do, but I'm still growing and learning, and I want people to see that they can do the same and grow and learn with me. I believe in teaching emotional intelligence and helping people understand that it's okay to take a moment, relax, and think before you act. I want young people especially to remember they're the creators and they have the power to make change, even with AI and all the technology around us.