In this soul-stirring episode, host Jodi Rose Gonzales asks a profound question: What is self-work really for? Through the ancient yogic principle of santosha (contentment), Jodi challenges the "best self" narrative that has turned healing into another form of productivity. She explores how creativity can be a pathway not to becoming someone else, but to finding peace with who you already are.

This episode is for anyone exhausted from the self-help hamster wheel, tired of treating growth like something to hack or optimize. Jodi reveals how the simple act of creating—without agenda or improvement—can be the most direct path to the contentment we've been seeking everywhere else.

Key Takeaways

• The Myth of the Better Version: Most healing narratives sell us the story that there's a "better you" waiting in the future, making us more restless rather than at peace with who we are now.
• Santosha as the Art of Enough: This yogic principle teaches contentment that comes not from having everything you want, but from wanting what you have—recognizing fullness in this moment, as you are.
• Creativity as Being, Not Becoming: When we create, we're not trying to transform into something else—we're practicing presence and wholeness exactly as we are in that moment.

Art Prompt: Creating Your Symbol of Contentment

Create a simple symbol that feels like peace to you—a candle flame, tree with deep roots, spiral, heart, or circle. Don't overthink it; let something emerge that feels like "enough."

Once you have your symbol, engage in a conversation with it:

• What would it say about contentment, rest, and the art of being enough?
• What 1-3 actions does it offer to help you experience more contentment?
• What do you want me to know about who I already am?

Write using stream of consciousness, preferably with your non-dominant hand, from the perspective of your drawing.

Closing Wisdom

You are not a project to be completed, a problem to be solved, or a rough draft of someone better. You are whole right now—imperfect and complete, wounded and sacred, growing and enough.

Resources

• Join the iROSE Society: jodirosestudio.com/society
• Explore upcoming Offerings & Masterclasses: jodirosestudio.com/offerings