In Practice with Kenna Allison
Nature, ritual, and creative devotion
In our “In Practice with” series, we feature individuals who embody the synergy between creativity and conscious living. This edition spotlights Kenna Allison, a 26-year-old visual artist and creative director based in Montana. Specializing in photography and creative direction, Kenna possesses a unique ability to capture the essence of her subjects, seamlessly blending her artistic vision with a deep appreciation for nature. Her work reflects a commitment to sustainability and storytelling, aiming to inspire a profound connection with the environment. Join us as we delve into the practices and philosophies that shape Kenna’s creative journey and sustainable lifestyle.
What daily practices are essential to you?
Physical and spiritual nourishment: 20 minutes of meditation, warming home-cooked meals, and plenty of tea and herbal infusions. Sunlight: visiting the sun at sunrise and sunset. Daily outside time, rain or shine. Movement: It doesn’t matter what form it takes, 15 minutes or an hour. Yoga and strength training are my personal favorites.
Can you share one of your practices that is meaningful to you?
A simple but beneficial practice I have is the fourfold breath. Whenever I’m feeling out of focus, or I start to feel my heart rate increase in moments of stress, I focus on my breath- four counts for the in-breath, hold, out a breath, and hold again. I do this as long as needed until I return to a centered place.
How does this practice make you feel balanced and energized?
Similar to my meditation practice, it clears my energy, sharpens my senses, and calms my mind quickly whenever I need to re-ground throughout the day.
When/Where do you feel most content and connected to yourself?
Anytime I’m among the company of a flowing mountain creek, flora, fauna, + fungi, the trees, the moon, the birds, deer, and other creatures that visit us daily, or watching a storm roll across the sky- is certainly when I feel most connected to myself. Whether it’s at home, where I’m so lucky to have an abundance of wild space out my front door, or high in the mountains, being in nature is my peace.
How important is nutrition in caring for your body, mind, and spirit?
I think it’s vital, as above, so below. Providing our bodies with adequate nutrition enhances our overall vitality and creates harmony in all aspects of our lives.
What drew you to Ultimate Foundation?
I was drawn to Ultimate Foundation when I saw the beautiful ingredients list. It read as a balanced symphony of nourishing and cohesive plant allies working together to support the body, mind, and spirit and create an environment for our overall health to begin to thrive.
When did you notice a change, and how did it make you feel?
I saw a change from the first cup. It grounded and centered me, heightening my awareness and concentration. I felt more calm and present as I moved through my day. As the weeks went on, I noticed an increase in my energy levels and a sustained sense of balance within myself. I also noticed improvements in my gut health, which radiated outwards to my skin—which has always been a problem area for me.
Do you have a daily mantra or intention you like to practice?
Gratitude. Daily practice of acknowledging all there is to be grateful for is the simplest way to give an offering back to all that is given.
What inspired you to get into photography?
I got into photography a decade ago, at 16, when I got myself a point-and-shoot camera. From the moment it was in my hands, I was on a mission to tell stories through my work. I found it highly therapeutic. Photography became my therapeutic outlet, with nature being my biggest muse. I’ve always aimed to capture the feelings of total peace amongst the visual beauty we are so privileged to be surrounded by.
What is the message you want people to take away from your work?
I’ve always wanted others to feel the deep appreciation I have for our Earth and the beautiful moments that surround us every day. I hope this inspires them to take more time to be still and aware of the magic around every corner and grow their own appreciation for it, too.
What do you think is vital to finding beauty in yourself?
I’ve found a balance between radical acceptance and actively showing care for myself by staying consistent in the daily rituals I’ve cultivated. Whenever I fall off my routines or neglect my self-care, self-doubt, and insecurities creep in the most. I feel the most beautiful when I cherish the body I’ve been given and use it to be in harmony with the natural world around me.
Lastly, what does transformation mean/look like to you?
Transformation is the ability to alchemize what is no longer serving us, continuously trusting in the cycle of death and rebirth to lead us exactly where we need to be next. I’ve learned to make peace with the constant ebb and flow of change and open myself to the unknown—that’s where the magic happens.
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