One thing most of us share is a constant search for inspiration. Inspiration cannot be forced; it must come from within. Like the seasons, creativity moves in cycles. There are times of abundance and moments of drought when ideas feel spent, like flowers at the end of their bloom. Recognizing this cyclical nature brings comfort: with patience, care and attention, new growth returns. Water, sun and love—metaphors for rest, stimulation and connection—help seeds of creativity sprout again, producing fresh concepts and meaningful work.
I once feared I had lost my creative spark for good. I remember my first art therapy session clearly: tears came as I recalled periods when creativity flowed easily, and I wondered if that current would ever return. Back then my creative impulses were often driven by fear, depression or substance use. Without love and gentleness they rarely produced work that felt whole or nourishing.
Over time I relearned how to reconnect with myself, and I discovered reliable sources of inspiration that continue to guide my creative process. Below I share the ones that feed me most, hoping they might help you rediscover or deepen your own spark.
Nature
When a recipe or project refuses to come together, I stop forcing it and step outside. A walk in dunes, a trail through a local park, or simply a quiet moment near water realigns my thinking. Nature has a way of reflecting who we are; the rhythm of wind through leaves or the motion of tides opens a space inside where ideas arise naturally.
Many of my food creations, especially the colourful plates I make, are directly inspired by natural palettes and textures. I prefer to use natural ingredients and colouring when possible because the colours feel more honest and connected to the source of inspiration. If you don’t live near large wild spaces, small city parks, gardens or even window boxes can provide similar prompts: observe patterns, notice colour combinations, and pay attention to textures and light.
Art
Art in its many forms—painting, music, dance, film, photography, fashion, architecture and even culinary presentation—fuels my imagination. I like to imagine the artist’s state of mind during creation and consider the life experiences that shaped their work. Art evokes emotions. I let those feelings guide me inward, where they can transform into new ideas. When an artist moves me, I credit them openly because their work is a gift that broadened my perspective.
To cultivate creativity, expose yourself regularly to art that challenges or comforts you. Keep a notebook for quick impressions after viewing a show or listening to a piece of music. Small observations often grow into larger projects when revisited with fresh attention.
Love
Love has inspired countless dishes, photos and projects in my life. Love shows up in many forms: affection for family, passion for tradition, appreciation for friends, or tender care for oneself. When I feel truly connected—to my culture, to people I care about, or to my own body—ideas arise that are layered with meaning.
My cultural heritage has informed recipes and projects passed down through generations; honoring that lineage is a continual source of inspiration. Likewise, love for my own physical wellbeing motivates me to design nourishing meals, teach mindful yoga classes, and create practices that support long-term creativity. When love guides the process, the results feel resonant and sustainable.
These examples are a few of the things that inspire me daily. If you have sources of inspiration that light you up, I’d love to hear about them—leave a comment below or find me on Instagram @theindigokitchen and share what moves you. Simple practices like taking regular walks, keeping a small sketchbook, or making time to experience art can make a significant difference over weeks and months.
One Love,
Jason