2026 has begun, and as you - and many others - may have done, I have spent some time reflecting on what feels important right now, and what I would like to create more space for in the new year ahead.
No New Year’s resolutions. Just a few simple pillars, or guiding principles, to serve as both inspiration and driving force in the new year.
PAUSE, IMMERSION & COMMUNITY are three of my key words. Chosen from my experiences and reflections over the past year, and guided by intuition and a clear attraction toward something I am seeking and longing for.
PAUSE
I believe this is more important than ever. Giving yourself a break from the endless stream of tasks, obligations, and expectations. From mental overload, social media, news feeds, noise, and constant visual input.
To switch off from the world for a moment. Perhaps just an hour now and then. A quiet moment where you allow your own thoughts to come and go. Or maybe a few days with space for self-care and time to rediscover your own needs, interests, and small, hidden dreams.
It sounds simple. But in a world full of stimuli and interruptions, it can be surprisingly difficult to turn off the “power.”
This year, I will practice creating more pauses in my everyday life. Pauses that make room for calm and for new ideas and undisturbed thoughts to emerge.
Do you recognize the urge for breaks? Then the book The Power of Pause by Terry Hershey, or the Danish book POWER PAUSE by Pia Hauge might be on your list of books worth reading in 2026.
IMMERSION
Allowing yourself to be absorbed by something, to lose track of time, to become skilled at something. In a world where almost everything is speeding up and tasks are expected to be completed at record pace, I believe in immersion as a healing practice.
Our brains and bodies are not naturally created for the pace at which we often live our lives. If you feel drawn to something… butterflies, fishing, music, literature, knitting, vegetable gardening, baking or something entirely different – then nurture it! Research shows that our mental health is strengthened, that the body calms down, and that we maintain our brains by learning new things and immersing ourselves in a craft or a subject that truly engages us.
In the coming year, I will explore new printing techniques and new materials in my work. At the same time, my list of novels and inspiring non-fiction continues to grow – along with a list of new plants I hope to grow in my garden.
COMMUNITY
Relationships and communities are essential to our well-being. We need to feel that we are part of something bigger.
Over the past years, I have hosted more and more courses and workshops, and it is here that I have truly felt the power of community. Meeting people who share the same interests. Exchanging professional knowledge, skills, and sometimes life stories.
It has been deeply moving to experience the sense of connection and uplifting energy that can arise when people gather around a shared activity, interest, or cause that truly engages them.
Science agrees: communities quite simply help you live longer – and better, according to the Danish Psychological Association.
At the beginning of this year, I am determined to nurture community even more. And to help create spaces for shared workshops, events, and retreats, where we can come together to immerse ourselves in nature, art, craft, and learning. Where new connections and networks can lift us, both professionally and personaly.
Would you like to join me for a two-day retreat on the island of Ærø this summer? With nature, peace, botanical printing, wonderful food, and a creative community.
Read more here: SUMMER RETREAT 2026
And please feel free to write me at mail@pernillefolcarelli.dk if you would like to take part.
With these thoughts, I wish you a WONDERFUL NEW YEAR – filled with exactly what you wish for, need, or long for.
And remember: even the smallest steps help pave the way. Or at least create a small path toward what brings nourishment and meaning into your life.
