Nancy L. Johnston

Thunder BRidge

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In October 2024, Nancy rented a writer’s studio at Thunder BRidge, an Arts and Culture Center in Rockbridge County, VA. Ironically, this lovely center for artists is the same facility at which Nancy began her career as a therapist 47 years ago. It was then a juvenile corrections center for 16–18-year-old males to whom Nancy offered individual and group counseling. Her work there was foundational for her evolving career, especially introducing her to work with addiction and its effects on family systems.

 

In her writer’s studio, Nancy is working on a new book proposal and several other writing projects. She also writes haiku and does art journaling. She walks right out of the door of her studio onto the 100 acres of Thunder BRidge. Strolling through the fields and woods nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge mountains, she is calmed and inspired and happy to come back in to write, read, and create further.

 

In the near future, Nancy plans to offer public workshops at Thunder BRidge. Thinking of her studio as The Art of Well-Being, her workshops will include:

 

• Nonfiction writing – Emphasis will be on writing what you know, developing writing practices, and managing your inner critic as you write

 

• Mixed media art journaling –Tap into your feelings, experiences, and creativity and express them visually through collage using images, words, paint, fabric, stickers, pen, pencil, markers – and whatever your imagination suggests. Developing your ability to be nonjudgmental of you and your creations which are for you – not to please or satisfy others.

 

• Mindfulness outdoors – Building from core practices of mindful breathing and stretching, these workshops will involve silent walks on the property designed to help participants access calm, stillness, and spaciousness within.

 

Looking at the Thunder BRidge website, you will find that there are 3 Airbnb cottages and camping available there. This makes an extended workshop or retreat easily possible. Working with the owners of Thunder BRidge, Nancy is interested in helping you or your organization design a residential retreat that incorporates any or all of the workshops described above.