Loto Journal
Including thoughtfully created blog content about somatic healing practices, nervous system self-regulation techniques, and faith-based spiritual practices, Loto Wellness Collective’s blog focuses on the art and science of rest and renewal, drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus, monastic wisdom, and modern science.
Through personal storytelling and letter writing, follow our Founder, Jennifer Axcell, as she travels the 🌎 globe as a digital nomad and Desert Mother, exploring cultural expressions of rest and self-care.
Reader’s Note: In the Loto Wellness Collective blog content, except for direct quotes, the pronouns often used for the One True God are They/Them in reference to the triune personhood of YHWH. When referencing Jesus specifically, the pronouns He/Him are used. In keeping with the canonical New Testament, God is also referred to as Father.
The Fruits of the Spirit Devotional: Cultivating Love 🍍
“Love is the vessel in which all of the other fruits of the Spirit are held.”
Fruits of the Spirit Devotional: Bearing Fruit 🍋🍇🍎🍊
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." —Galatians 5:22–23
Facing Our Fears
The fact that this blog posts exists means I survived my first skydive jump.
A Liturgy for Lola
Well done, good and faithful servant, well done.
Breathwork: A Tool for Self-Regulation of the Nervous System to Influence the Polyvagal Response 🫁
Breathwork is a powerful practice that can help self-regulate the nervous system and influence the polyvagal response. The breath is a unique tool because it can be consciously controlled and modified to impact our physiological and emotional states.
Rest as Soul Care 🕊️
In the chaos and busyness of our modern world, finding rest can often feel like an elusive dream. We are constantly bombarded by responsibilities, deadlines, and the relentless demands of our daily lives. But amidst this whirlwind, I have discovered a profound truth: rest is not merely an act of physical rejuvenation; it is a deeply spiritual practice that nurtures and restores the soul.
Seasons of Nature and Spiritual Growth: Summer 🌻
Summer in spiritual growth represents a time of spiritual dryness. It is a time of needing more spiritual food and Living Water to stay replenished.
Lessons from the Garden 🪴
Just as plants follow their own natural cycles, gardening can reinforce your trust in God's timing. It teaches you to surrender control and have faith that things will unfold as they should. How is God actively working to instill trust that God's timing is perfect and that He is working everything for your good?
Seasons of Nature and Spiritual Growth: Spring 🌱
Spring in spiritual growth represents a time of joy and glory after dormancy and hardships. It is a time of pruning, when God shapes and molds his people.
Grace in Every Breath: What is Christian Yoga? ✝️🧘♀️
Imagine a dance where faith takes the lead, and flexibility follows with grace and harmony. Christian yoga with Loto Wellness Collective is just that—a spiritual ballet where your body becomes an instrument of praise, and your heart, a vessel for God's love. In the gentle stretches and mindful breaths, we discover the beauty of surrender, the art of letting go, and the wonder of God's presence in each movement.
The Nervous System’s Relationship to Stress 🧠
The polyvagal theory offers a framework for understanding the complex interplay between the autonomic nervous system, stress responses, social engagement, and rest. It highlights the importance of fostering a balanced autonomic nervous system, promoting a state of safety and connection to support optimal rest and well-being.
Yoga and Meditation During Lent
yoga and meditation during lent, sacred rest
Sanctuary: Your Safe Space at Home
home sanctuary, safe space, rituals, bath products
Seasons of Nature and Spiritual Growth: Winter ❄️
Winter in spiritual growth represents a time of introspection and examining our hearts and motives. A time of allowing God to make changes in us. A time for strengthening and maturing in Him.
Contributors & Collaborators
Loto Living and Loto Journal, would not be possible without the ongoing support and generous contributions from an incredible team of writers, artists, healers, editors, creatives, and pastors.