Finding Balance: An Artist’s Journey Through Sobriety, Ayahuasca, and the Pursuit of Wellness
A commitment to holistic well-being-encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual health-has become increasingly central to the life and work of one prominent artist, who openly discusses the challenges of maintaining equilibrium amidst a demanding career. The artist’s journey, marked by a postponed tour in 2022 due to health concerns and a subsequent embrace of sobriety, offers a compelling look at the complexities of self-care in the public eye.
The struggle to find balance is a universal one, but particularly acute for those navigating creative professions. “I still struggle with that balance,” the artist admitted. “That’s probably where my routine suffers the most personally. I don’t think I get enough rest as I could to help with that, so it’s always a balance of all three.” This sentiment underscores the difficulty of prioritizing well-being when faced with professional obligations. The artist acknowledges that achieving this balance is easier for those dedicated solely to physical pursuits, such as “full-time bodybuilders or, I don’t know, whatever you want to call it, physique influencers,” but concedes that “it’s hard to do when you have other shit going on in your life.”
the turning point came in 2022, when the artist postponed a tour for the project Bronco, citing declining physical and mental health. This decision prompted a deeper exploration of self-care, beginning with sobriety. “What it really boiled down to was deciding to start really taking care of all parts of myself, which include physical and mentalemotional, spiritual, whatever you want to call it,” the artist explained. “For me, that was getting sober and that was a way for me to be more present in my body and, I guess, listen to my body more.” This newfound awareness allowed for a more mindful approach to physical and emotional needs.
The artist emphasizes the importance of establishing a consistent routine, not just for exercise, but as a daily practice of self-care. “Yeah, it was a very big change, and I think the main thing for me was finding not just a routine in terms of working out but the sort of practice of putting aside time at the start of every day to move my body, get my blood flowing, take care of myself.” This daily ritual provides both physiological benefits-boosting dopamine and serotonin-and a sense of grounding.
Seeking further avenues for healing and self-revelation, the artist also turned to ayahuasca, a plant-based psychedelic traditionally used in spiritual ceremonies. “I did ayahuasca a couple times, and it was really helpful,” the artist shared. “I think it really helped me to just sort of get out of my head and just be present.” This experience fostered a sense of radical acceptance and gratitude. “I think, over the past couple years is just this not only radical acceptance of myself but just being so grateful that I feel like I don’t fit in.” This acceptance has fueled a sense of creative freedom, allowing the artist to create music that is unburdened by external expectations. “I think, musically, I wrote the music in a way that was very unconcerned about what people may think of it or if people would like it.”
Even seemingly mundane aspects of life, like skincare, are approached with mindful attention, particularly given the demands of performing in Cabaret, where masks are frequently enough worn. “People ask me this a lot. No, it’s true,” the artist joked, acknowledging the potential for breakouts. A balanced routine, incorporating both high-end and accessible products like CeraVe, helps maintain skin health.
The artist’s viewpoint on societal norms extends to a provocative take on the concept of “slutty” behavior. Challenging conventional notions, the artist suggests that “covering more and wearing more clothing in a weird way is potentially sluttier, becuase I think in a world where we just reveal every little thing about ourselves to each other at all times, I think holding back details is the sluttiest thing you can do.” The artist ultimately believes that true provocation lies in mystery and self-possession. “I think the slut comes from within.”
Ultimately, the artist’s journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness, radical acceptance, and the courage to prioritize well-being-a path that continues to inform both their personal life and their increasingly vulnerable and authentic artistic expression.
