✨ Nourishing the Artist Within: Living Gently with Colitis
By Misti Flowers
Founder of Dressed Up Hippy Art & Designs – Blog Post #5
A week ago, I was diagnosed with Colitis.
Honestly, it’s been a swirl of symptoms, appointments, and unexpected exhaustion. I’ve been learning what it means to live with a chronic condition that affects how I eat, rest, and create. But amidst all of it, I’m discovering a new kind of rhythm — one that’s slower, softer, and surprisingly nourishing.
If you’re on a similar path — whether recently diagnosed or trying to support your body through a rough patch — I want to share what’s been helping me as I find my footing.
🌼 Eating to Heal, Not Just to Eat
Food has become something I have to listen to, not just enjoy. I’ve learned to be kind to my digestive system, especially when it’s feeling inflamed or overwhelmed.
Here’s a sample of the kind of meals that have been keeping me fed, calm, and creative:
🌞 Morning
Banana-Cinnamon Oatmeal
Soft oats cooked in water or oat milk, with mashed banana and a sprinkle of cinnamon — gentle on the gut, warm for the soul.
🍵 Midday Nourishment
Chicken & Rice Bowl
Tender baked chicken, plain white rice, and soft-cooked zucchini — drizzled with a little olive oil or bone broth. It’s simple, but satisfying.
🌙 Evening Wind-Down
Salmon + Mashed Potatoes
Baked salmon (nothing spicy!), a side of creamy mashed potatoes, and steamed carrots. A cozy plate that helps me feel grounded before bed.
🍃 Listening to My Body (Without Judgment)
Some days, my body wants nothing but rest — so I let myself rest. Other days, I can paint, or plan designs, or even write a blog post like this. The key is in not pushing. I’ve swapped hustle for flow. Deadlines for breath.
I still make. I still dream.
But now I do it at the pace of peace.
🎨 Creating as Medicine
Art is still my safe place. When my stomach hurts, I sit with my laptop or work with colors that make me feel calm. Creating print and wearable designs from my artwork reminds me that even in discomfort, I’m still me — still expressive, still vibrant.
💌 To Anyone Walking This Road
If you’re newly diagnosed, or quietly struggling through your own version of pain, here’s what I’d say:
- Let your body teach you — it’s wiser than you think.
- Slow down, but don’t give up.
- Keep making beauty, even in small ways.
- You are allowed to rest and still be magical.
Stay soft. Stay strong. Stay artful.
— Misti
💚 If you’d like to view the Colitis-Friendly Meal Plan I’m using, ⬅️ click . Feel free to reach out if you’re on this path too — I see you.
