dahlia-inspired reflections on website design and self-discovery

over the past few months, i've found myself sinking into the world of website design and social media presence—not as a web designer or social media expert, but as a small therapy practice owner navigating the demands of modern exposure. it’s felt more like quicksand than solid ground, resisting the relentless currents of self-promotion and branding that define our capitalist culture.

i pushed back against the superficial gloss of social media and the pressure to conform to trends that seem more about selling than healing. yet, in this saturated market, i reluctantly acknowledged the necessity of showcasing my practice’s offerings, strengths, and unique approach.

so, here i am, embracing a rebellion of sorts. i decided to create my website with my own words, injecting personal vulnerability and using counter-culture marketing color schemes and my style. each photo is mine, capturing the essence of authenticity amidst a sea of polished facades. i scoured websites of therapists and healers aligned with my values, seeking a connection that eluded me —leading me to forge my path, unapologetically flawed and genuine.

in my blogging, i hope that consistency will give way to fluidity. that the flow of my writing will mirror the ebb and flow of my moods, client interactions, and evolving healing practices. it’s a scrappy and bold approach, refusing to demand perfection or excessive attention. there are mistakes in my sentence structures, grammar, and punctuation because life itself is messy and approachable in its imperfection.

just like the dahlia photo adorning my website cover—a choice not of flawless petals but of torn and weathered beauty. these dahlias were plucked from my father's untamed garden, a sanctuary of disorder that initially clashed with my need for structure. yet, with each visit, i began to appreciate the wild unpredictability of his garden, where change is constant, and spontaneity rules.

this summer, the dahlias are particularly magnificent. their vibrant hues and varied shapes fascinate me—not just for their beauty but for what they symbolize. dahlias epitomize inner strength and resilience in the face of adversity, thriving in diverse environments despite their central american origins. they teach us about diversity and inclusion, showcasing how different sizes, colors, and shapes can coexist harmoniously without competing for attention.

like the dahlias, my journey with this website has been a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. it’s about being seen without seeking the limelight, about embracing imperfections and vulnerabilities while striving to shine authentically. this new terrain of online presence feels inhospitable and unfamiliar, challenging me to be different yet real, perfectly imperfect.

the message of the dahlias resonates deeply with me:

be seen, be enough, be loved, be free.

be the protagonist in our own story.

navigating life’s complexities with courage and grace.

Dalia-inspired reflections on self-discovery