We were lucky to catch up with Jay Bartley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jay , so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Keeping my creativity alive has many layers. One that comes to mind is being open and connected to myself, the world and others. I have to say, even basic day to day stuff keeps my creative juices flowing. For instance, going for a walk can be a creative act. Finding the curiosity in what sensations I feel in my body, how am I moving, noticing the richness of nature/city life that surrounds me. A simple smile or acknowledgement from another human. That is why I am shocked and saddened when I see so many people with their heads buried down into their phone.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a Rolfer® Structural Integrator which is form of bodywork that was developed by Dr. Ida P. Rolf. I help people discover new and adaptable ways to be in their body through hands on work and/or movement explorations. What I love about what I do, is that it is effective, creative and in these times of uncertainty and people being disconnected to themselves, it allows me to be in service to bringing people back home to their bodies and slow down.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Putting in the work, whether it be the field you want to really be in. I spent years working in the corporate world, not really enjoying it, but knowing one day I would be able to do what I really love. I also think it’s important to have outlets, while I was in the banking industry, I also was in a couple dance companies, which allowed me to be creative and stay inspired.
Interpersonal relationships is hugely important. Being able to communicate in person, to be able to look into someones eyes and have a conversation is such a lost art form.
Reflect. Slow down. Take care of yourself. Know when you need to recharge your battery.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
I tend to worry and feel overwhelmed at times and is still a practice for me to come out of it. Being able to recognize it, name it and not think badly about that part of you, but to embrace it. To know it’s temporary, and have a support system in place, whether it be friends, family, partner, therapist – a sounding board.
Also, knowing your resources. For me, movement is key – being physically active. Finding what works for you to stay in the present moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bartleysi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bartleystructuralintegration/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bartleystructuralintegration/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-bartley-7a154940/
Image Credits
Personal Photo – J. Bartley Additional Photo (left to right) #1 – Ginger Sole Photography #2 – Elvy #3 – MR #4 and #5 Henrikphoto.com
