Empowering Photography for Unapologetic Women,
Sensual Boudoir Photography, Portraits, Glamour & Art Nude Photography. London, UK & beyond.
Sensual Boudoir Photography, Portraits, Glamour & Art Nude Photography. London, UK & beyond.
Blog Post
5 Ways to re-connect with yourself
Patrick Falaniko • Aug 02, 2022
We live in a fast-paced world. Thousands of impressions flit past our screens. Is it any wonder you're feeling disconnected from yourself? Is burnout looming? Do you feel exhausted to your bones?
This article will look at five ways to connect with yourself and find some well-deserved peace, tranquillity, and connection.
Psst, the second one on the list is my personal favourite, but I may be biased!
What is Self-Care, Anyway?
Many of the self-connection tips on this list will fall into the category of self-care. But what is self-care, and why should you care?
Chances are you've heard the term self-care at the doctors, on the news, and from your best friend since childhood.
Did you know self-care can be anything that involves taking the time to care for your physical and emotional needs? Yes, that means that self-care can be taking the time not to eat lunch at your desk this coming Monday or asking someone to watch the kids so you can have a long, indulgent shower and brush your teeth for the full recommended two minutes.
#1 Massage for Mind-Body Connection
When you put on your shoes to walk the dogs this morning, did your lower back twinge in that way that says, 'Hey, you've been sitting at a desk too much this week'?
Massage is a fantastic way
to aid relaxation, soothe tight muscles, and give yourself much-needed pain relief.
Naturally, we would all love to be able to pop into a massage parlour every week, but our bank accounts do not always allow for that.
Instead of paying a highly qualified professional, you may want to take matters into your own hands. Literally.
Self-massage
allows you to focus your attention exactly where your body needs it and grounds you within yourself. It's a fantastic way to create a mindfulness practice.
Tiffany Bown will show you how to reconnect with your feminine goodness
in this short video.
#2 Book a Boudoir Photoshoot
It's time to re-discover the power and beauty that is uniquely yours.
A boudoir photo shoot is a fantastic way to empower yourself and reconnect with your body. Something incredible happens when the layers come off, and comfort in front of the camera builds. You not only end up feeling focused and within yourself during the session, but you also have powerful artistic nudes to look back on whenever you need a reminder of your inner goddess.
My mission as a London boudoir photographer
and owner of Goddess Studio is to help you feel at home within your body and allow you to see yourself with fresh eyes.
#3 Dinner for One
Have you ever taken yourself out to dinner?
No, not a quick bite to eat from Pret. The whole 9 yards of getting ready, putting on a favourite outfit, choosing shoes you never had the opportunity to wear and ordering whatever you like from someplace with dimmed lighting and live music.
Treating yourself to something customarily reserved for others is a unique way to connect to yourself and your inner power.
Take the time to sit with the possible discomfort of people knowing you're there alone. You're a person in your power, and you do not need a companion to enjoy a beautiful meal.
Top Tip: leave your phone at home and maybe bring a book you never get the chance to read. Bonus points if it's a beautiful cover.
#4 Write it Out
Most people cannot stop buying pretty notebooks and journals with the prospect of one day being one of those people who record their innermost thoughts, just waiting for someone in the future to discover them.
Writing is a beautiful way to connect with yourself and your feelings. That doesn't mean you need to write every single day, but when you remember to put your thoughts down on paper, you'll walk with a spring in your step that can only come from feeling unburdened.
Need a prompt to figure out what to write about to connect with yourself? Why not start with jotting down a single word that encompasses how you're feeling now. If you want to expand on that singular word, you can.
Alternatively, you may want to start a gratitude journal and write down three things you're grateful for today. That can be your morning cup of coffee or the fact that the rain means you won't have to water the garden.
#5 Exercise Those World Weary Bones
Do you want to run a marathon? Great, that's a worthy cause, and I wish you the best of luck. However, most of us just want a little more movement in our days.
Sweating (gently) it out gets you out of your head and into your body. That is precisely what we're looking to do when we're looking for ways to reconnect with ourselves.
Rather than telling yourself, you'll start going to the gym for an hour every day; it is much wiser to start with small, accomplishable steps. How about a little walk around the block coupled with a good audiobook or walking meditation? Let's notice the birds and trees in our path.
About: Goddess Studio
At Goddess Studio, my mission is to empower you to find yourself through intimate portraits and boudoir photography.
I have been a creative director for 20 years. When I discovered how nude photography transformed people's lives, I knew I would need to continue on this path to help women feel empowered, strong, and unapologetically themselves.
A boudoir photography session at our London home studio can be as sexy or playful as you like. You are the leader of your empowerment, and I just facilitate with a camera and posing directions in whatever ways I can.
Are you unsure and a little nervous about what to expect when you go all-in on the Goddess Studio experience? Have a look over here to better understand what the day will entail, from hair and make-up to choosing your favourite images.
I can't wait to hear from you. Your dream goddess experience is only a click away. Take the leap; you deserve it.
Share with a goddess you know
Love what I do? feel free to share this with a goddess you know :)
So what happens if you really only require one or two images? Yes, I get do get many inquiries for actor and modelling online applications, and Linkedin and Business Profile images, the Ice Breaker session is ideal for you.
Of course you can treat yourself to a luxurious and empowering experience, simply because you deserve it. Here's a few more wonderful reasons to book a boudoir photo shoot or photo session with us... 1. Self-Love: Take time out to embrace self-care and celebrate your own unique beauty. 2. Empowerment: (Re)discover your confidence and an inner strength you may have not realised you had all along. 3. Milestone Celebrations: Whether it's turning 30, 40, or 50, any significant milestone, a boudoir session can serve as a beautiful reflection of your personal growth, strength, and resilience. 4. Body Positivity: Embrace and appreciate your body just as it is. 5. Love Letter to Yourself: Create a visual reminder of self-love and acceptance. 6. Pre-Wedding Confidence Boost: Feel stunning and confident before your big day, Before you say "I do," treat yourself to a boudoir session as a reminder of your beauty, confidence, and the amazing journey you're about to embark on as a bride. 7. Anniversary Surprise: Gift your partner an intimate and meaningful surprise. 8. Post-Baby Rejuvenation: Celebrate your journey into motherhood with a revitalising session. 9. Relationship Refresh: Reignite the spark and create beautiful memories together, there's nothing like sending a boudoir photo (or two) to your lover. 10. Empowering Gift: Surprise a loved one with a unique and empowering experience. 11. Bachelorette Party Fun: Enjoy a memorable and empowering activity with your closest friends, hey girl! up for a boudoir photo shoot?. Ask about our Refer a Friend and Share a session vouchers. 12. Body Transformation: All our photo shoots can be transformational, if you're ready to celebrate your personal fitness milestones or body-positive journeys, just type in 'boudoir shoot near me' and let's take that first step :). 13. Boosting Self-Esteem: Enhance your self-esteem and see yourself in a brand new light, with beautiful boudoir nude photography to take home . 14. Embracing Vulnerability: The most courageous things you can do, when you feel the fear, get up and do it anyway. Overcome insecurities and embrace your vulnerability. 15. Channeling Your Inner Goddess: Tap into your fierce, empowered, and feminine energy, I love this sooo much, you are goddess, it's time to roar. 16. Personal Reflection: Capture a moment of 'close your eyes and feel the sunshine' sensation of pure joy. Slow and sensuous movements and poses is a wonderful opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth, go deep and stir your soul. See it shine out through your boudoir photos. 17. Embracing Sensuality: Reconnect with your sensual side and embrace your femininity, from fine art nudes to spicy mama vibes, love yourself in your own way. 18. Overcoming Body Image concerns: Challenge and overcome those negative body image thoughts, let's draw them out & pop them in the trash. 19. Just Because: Treat yourself to a fabulous and empowering experience, simply because it's so much fun. 20. Forever Memories: Create stunning and timeless images that you can cherish for a lifetime. How did we do, did we mention any you resonate with? I'd love to hear your reasons for doing a goddess session. Why not fill out our questionnaire and let's have a chat. Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio | Boudoir Photography London, UK & Beyond
Every so often when the need arises (or when an ambassador retires) I'll put out a discounted ambassador/model call. In this particular case the super enthusiastic whirlwind that is Lucy answered the call, and she's never looked back. A few boudoir photo session or three and quite a few artistic nude images later. Like many of our Ambassadors that came in for a taster session, she's stuck around and has featured many times. This is her story in her own words. There will never be enough words of praise, admiration or gratitude for Patrick and his studio! I have been an ambassador for Goddess Studio for 2 1/2 years and it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made and one that I never questioned from the moment the opportunity arose.
If you don't know what to wear for your session, look at this list for ideas.
Some poses, especially the spicy nudes can be quite challenging for the fuller busted woman, especially for keeping everything in place and not flying everywhere :). I've worked with a few hundred larger busted women over the last few years and for perkiness we've developed a few tips and tricks and poses to help things along. At the end of the day it's just not possible to recreate the bounce of plastic. And obviously we encourage everyone to embrace what they are blessed with. When it comes to lift and separation, great fitting bras and lingerie really helps with that. I've bought a few pieces from Curvy Kate including their Dear Scantilly Range. So far, a great service, pieces are well made and a perfect fit for women up to 38 K, so I'm totally happy to recommend. More and more I see sheer, natural or structured bra's that can add a variety of looks, and excitement, to your photo sessions. Their story. Curvy Kate's journey began with a launch through three small lingerie stores in and around London, specializing in plus-size fittings. Focused on providing the best D plus brands, the team faced challenges in offering the desired choice and fit to their customers. In 2006, a passionate team of bra enthusiasts at Curvy Kate decided to take matters into their own hands. They embarked on designing and producing a range tailored specifically for fuller-cupped individuals who sought something fun, fashionable, and, above all, beautifully fitted. Devoted to making women feel fabulous about their curves, Curvy Kate lives the "boob life," creating D to K cup lingerie and swimwear that curvy girls love. Their mission is simple: to make you happy by prioritizing fit, lift, shape, and comfort. The team works tirelessly to ensure your gorgeous figure gets everything it needs. Bras from Curvy Kate are rigorously tested by girls of all shapes, sizes, and curves. Only the snuggest, perkiest, and most comfortable designs earn a spot in their collection. Surprisingly, the average bra size they sell is a 34G, catering to a diverse range of sizes from small back sizes to plus sizes, including 40 to 44 backs and a variety of D to K cups. Their dedication to finding the perfect fit for all curvy bodies is showcased through the annual Star in a Bra competition, transforming one curvaceous lady into the poster girl for curvy girls everywhere. If you cherish your boobs as much as Curvy Kate does, they're here to help you discover the ideal fit! (Featured Elementary Plunge Bodysuit, Dear scantilly, Indulgence Stretch Lace Bodysuit in Ivory Cream worn by Jamie AKA @biggerbustbabe if you have any bigger bust questions, why not give her a follow) Interestingly some people think I specialise in photographing larger busted, curvier and plus-size women, but the truth is the average bust size in the UK is Double D and a size 16 so that 50% of the population DD and above. That's about the same for my client base. I just make sure they are showcased as much as everyone else :). Lingerie Spotlight: Celebrating UK lingerie designers and makers. If you have a lingerie brand or similar that you'd like to be featured, please get in touch, let's start a conversation :). Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio
Thinking about modeling as a career? It's a hella lot more challenging than it seems, but I can guide you :). Start by assessing if you have the potential for modeling, you'll need a thick skin, determination, a professional attitude. Then, approach agencies with evidence of your credentials - here's where I come in to help!
Hello Empowerment Enthusiasts! I'm passionate about empowerment photography, and helping women express themselves unapologetically and achieve their goals with beautiful imagery. I believe in women, and I love to help women believe in themselves, it's that simple. And that's why often you'll find my focus extends beyond the beauty of boudoir shoots and sensual nudes and maternity portraits. Personal branding, lifestyle/magazine-style shoots, business headshots and portraits tailored for incredible business women and entrepreneurs. I love it :).
Tiannah's Story. "Four years ago, I lost my firstborn to a stillbirth. Five months later, I discovered I was pregnant with my 'Rainbow baby.' My second child was born, and I am proud to have breastfed for 14 months. With all of these changes to my body, I started not to recognise myself. Some days I disliked looking in the mirror, and then there were days I loved what I saw. My scars and extra weight are a part of my story. I grew to love my body and all that it had endured. Deciding to participate in Patrick's 'Body Love' series was a profound statement of self-love and acceptance. It was an acknowledgment that I am perfect, even with my imperfections. I hope to grow more in wisdom and continue to promote self-love and healing.” Tiannah Birdsong. Deciding to take part in Patrick's empowering "Body Love" series was a profound act of self-love and acceptance for Tiannah. It symbolized her acknowledgement that she is perfect just as she is, imperfections and all. Through the beautiful photographs captured by Patrick, Tiannah saw herself in a new light. They became a visual celebration of her body's journey and a reminder of her wisdom and courage. “Just saw the photos, you are amazing!!! I LOVEEEE them and they have brought my spirits up so much. Thank you a thousand times!!!” Tiannah's experience with the "Body Love" series has inspired her to grow and continue to advocate for self-love and healing. She hopes to empower others to embrace their bodies, no matter the scars or changes they may bear. Tiannah's story is a powerful reminder that true beauty radiates from within, and embracing our bodies with love and acceptance is the key to finding healing and peace. If you're ready to embark on your own journey of self-acceptance and healing, contact us today to book your own transformative "Body Love" nude photoshoot. Together, we'll create stunning images that celebrate your unique beauty and help you embrace the love and acceptance you deserve. Book my Body Love session One of my goals is to produce a Body Love coffee table book & exhibition, if you'd like to take part please let me know when booking. Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio | Personal Empowerment Photographer, London UK & Beyond.
"Winter's here, and it's got us thinking about bringing some warmth back into your world, lovely. A time to reconnect with that inner fire that might get a bit dim in the daily grind. Now, in the world of artistic nudes photoshoots, I've seen some amazing (re)discoveries – people finding their way back to their body confidence through our sensual and body love nudes.
Dear Goddess, We often talk about glitter, glamour, poses and the power of unashamed female sensuality. We often talk about the top ten poses that every woman wants in her collection. We don't often talk about those quiet moments. The moments where the guided poses have sunk in and you've really found your groove, and you are just moving with freedom and ease. There's a story unfolding between the big moves, the popular money shots, where we just click, where the lens capture more than mere images - it holds the essence of who we are.
Patrick Falaniko | Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio
Boudoir Photography London UK & Beyond
For all women 18+, body confidence photography, art & sensual nude photography, erotic nude photography, portrait & personal branding photography.
We cover Walthamstow, London and the surrounding regions of the United Kingdom.
Follow us on instagram, Facebook and social media.
A Goddess Life: Catch up with the latest news and behind the scenes in our blog
So what happens if you really only require one or two images? Yes, I get do get many inquiries for actor and modelling online applications, and Linkedin and Business Profile images, the Ice Breaker session is ideal for you.
Of course you can treat yourself to a luxurious and empowering experience, simply because you deserve it. Here's a few more wonderful reasons to book a boudoir photo shoot or photo session with us... 1. Self-Love: Take time out to embrace self-care and celebrate your own unique beauty. 2. Empowerment: (Re)discover your confidence and an inner strength you may have not realised you had all along. 3. Milestone Celebrations: Whether it's turning 30, 40, or 50, any significant milestone, a boudoir session can serve as a beautiful reflection of your personal growth, strength, and resilience. 4. Body Positivity: Embrace and appreciate your body just as it is. 5. Love Letter to Yourself: Create a visual reminder of self-love and acceptance. 6. Pre-Wedding Confidence Boost: Feel stunning and confident before your big day, Before you say "I do," treat yourself to a boudoir session as a reminder of your beauty, confidence, and the amazing journey you're about to embark on as a bride. 7. Anniversary Surprise: Gift your partner an intimate and meaningful surprise. 8. Post-Baby Rejuvenation: Celebrate your journey into motherhood with a revitalising session. 9. Relationship Refresh: Reignite the spark and create beautiful memories together, there's nothing like sending a boudoir photo (or two) to your lover. 10. Empowering Gift: Surprise a loved one with a unique and empowering experience. 11. Bachelorette Party Fun: Enjoy a memorable and empowering activity with your closest friends, hey girl! up for a boudoir photo shoot?. Ask about our Refer a Friend and Share a session vouchers. 12. Body Transformation: All our photo shoots can be transformational, if you're ready to celebrate your personal fitness milestones or body-positive journeys, just type in 'boudoir shoot near me' and let's take that first step :). 13. Boosting Self-Esteem: Enhance your self-esteem and see yourself in a brand new light, with beautiful boudoir nude photography to take home . 14. Embracing Vulnerability: The most courageous things you can do, when you feel the fear, get up and do it anyway. Overcome insecurities and embrace your vulnerability. 15. Channeling Your Inner Goddess: Tap into your fierce, empowered, and feminine energy, I love this sooo much, you are goddess, it's time to roar. 16. Personal Reflection: Capture a moment of 'close your eyes and feel the sunshine' sensation of pure joy. Slow and sensuous movements and poses is a wonderful opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth, go deep and stir your soul. See it shine out through your boudoir photos. 17. Embracing Sensuality: Reconnect with your sensual side and embrace your femininity, from fine art nudes to spicy mama vibes, love yourself in your own way. 18. Overcoming Body Image concerns: Challenge and overcome those negative body image thoughts, let's draw them out & pop them in the trash. 19. Just Because: Treat yourself to a fabulous and empowering experience, simply because it's so much fun. 20. Forever Memories: Create stunning and timeless images that you can cherish for a lifetime. How did we do, did we mention any you resonate with? I'd love to hear your reasons for doing a goddess session. Why not fill out our questionnaire and let's have a chat. Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio | Boudoir Photography London, UK & Beyond
Every so often when the need arises (or when an ambassador retires) I'll put out a discounted ambassador/model call. In this particular case the super enthusiastic whirlwind that is Lucy answered the call, and she's never looked back. A few boudoir photo session or three and quite a few artistic nude images later. Like many of our Ambassadors that came in for a taster session, she's stuck around and has featured many times. This is her story in her own words. There will never be enough words of praise, admiration or gratitude for Patrick and his studio! I have been an ambassador for Goddess Studio for 2 1/2 years and it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made and one that I never questioned from the moment the opportunity arose.
If you don't know what to wear for your session, look at this list for ideas.
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