It has been a while since I have had access to a pottery wheel and kiln, but I’m an avid potter. I used to teach classes, and would often spend one of my weekend days at the pottery studio (pre-kiddo).
When I am able to and have access to a wheel and kiln, I’m in zen mode when covered in clay and throwing pots.
Why does this matter to you?
The actual art of throwing a pot on a wheel is called “the art of centering.”
You can throw as much clay on the wheel as many times as you want but if you cannot master centering the clay you will never actually have a symmetrical piece. It will be lopsided and wobbly - and for some potters it is the look they want but for function (of a plate or bowl or vase) centering is integral.
It can be hard to master, but once you do you can throw larger pieces and move faster. Throw, center, make, repeat.
Often you will have it centered and then it gets off center and you can bring it back — but sometimes the clay gets too soft and you have to start with a new piece of clay.
Centering in pottery to me is such a great metaphor for our minds. Once we get our thoughts centered we move with flow throughout life. Center = ease in life.
When we struggle with centering our thoughts, things feel out of kilter in our life and all we need to do is bring our minds and bodies back to our center.
Oh how I love to talk about bringing you back to your center. If you feel wobbly and are having trouble feeling connected to your center, sign up for a consult call with me. Your center is there - let’s find it.
