Photos taken by contributor Kendra Kantor, a 22-year-old woman from Chicago, Illinois. Kendra is a mother, writer and photographer who has suffered from mental health issues for most of her life. When she was 13, she started to recognize depression in herself and reached out for support. She started therapy and medication, and was eventually diagnosed with Panic Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. She loved photography as a young teen and after a break, which included dropping out of art school and becoming a mother, she is learning to love the camera again and use it as a wellness tool. Kendra has become a Wellness Mentor and Guide for creative women looking to embrace their self discovery and improve their mental health.

About these photos: “In my attempt to heal and treat my depression and anxiety in more natural ways, I’ve recently started a mindfulness practice. Every Monday on Instagram, I host and take part in what I call #MindfulMondayPractice. I take time to pause, focus and reflect on the outside world and find what is beautiful or ugly and capture it with my phone. I try to be mindful of my body as well as the outside world. I tend to hold all of my tension in my face, especially around my mouth. Being mindful helps me be aware of it and relax my muscles. It also encourages me to focus outward and see the world in a different perspective. It’s my way to re-frame my thoughts and emotions.” 

Find more from Kendra at her website and blog.

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