Hidden Gems: Meet Kara Michelle Pierson of Lilac & Indigo

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Michelle Pierson of Lilac & Indigo.

Hi Kara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers?
After graduating from college in 2014, I STRUGGLED trying to navigate the world as an adult. Like many adults in the West, I was experiencing a lot of anxiety, stress. and  depression. Meditation and mindful creativity practices like painting, collage, and art journaling transformed my relationship with my emotions. Instead of constant numbing, I was finally able to hold compassion for myself in the light moments and the deep, dark ones, which is the meaning behind the name Lilac & Indigo.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t say smooth. In the beginning I struggled a lot with imposter syndrome, balancing a full time job, funding my art supplies, and figuring out the business side of things. I’m still learning and evolving everyday. Even with those challenges, I will say that the growth has felt organic and aligned.

As you know, we’re big fans of Lilac & Indigo LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Our systems have been built to prioritize productivity and profit over nourishment and as a result, many of us are disconnected from rest, our bodies , and our own voices.  Lilac & Indigo helps people to restore that connection through mindful creativity. Participants are invited to slow down and create their own wellness tools like customized journals, essential oil blends, relaxation eye pillows, etc. which are paired with mindfulness techniques that support their wellbeing. Sometimes it looks like turning a meeting room or classroom into a relaxing space, other times, it looks like a customized box with the supplies inside. Two of the most common reactions from participants are “I never would’ve thought to sit down and do this on my own.” and “This is something I didn’t even know I needed.” I always remind folks that they are worthy of the time they invest into their rest and wellness practices, whatever that looks like for them.

I’m so grateful to be in partnership with organizations that are doing some powerful wellness work! I recently collaborated with the Cincinnati Art Museum on a community care space that was featured in an exhibition of Kara Walker’s artwork. Over the past 2 years I’ve been working with Queens Village Cincinnati, along with Regina Patton of Everyday Adventures to design a Wellness Program for Black Women in effort to reduce infant mortality. The Well and I are currently collaborating on a pilot mindfulness program for elementary school students at Imagine Bella Academy, here in Cleveland. These organizations are working to transform the ways we engage wellness and I’m so honored to be a part of that.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
No advice. :-). Just a reminder that you are worthy of rest and nourishment and cultivating these things can help you tap into your own wisdom.

Contact Info:

• Email: hello@lilacandindigo.com
• Website: www.lilacandindigo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilac_indigo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lilacandindigo
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVsiq3fRan_ANwPhtbsFQSA

Image Credits
Le Thompson