This week, Joy chats with James McCrae, author, poet, meme artist, and creative strategist based in Austin, Texas. In his writing and art, he applies the principles of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy to modern life with humor and candor. As the founder of Re-Creation Studio, James offers coaching and consultation services and teaches classes on conscious creativity. He also hosts Sunflower Club, a podcast that explores the intersection of creativity, consciousness, and culture.  In this episode James shares his unique take on the relationship between creativity and spirituality. He discusses the difference between your ego and higher self and how ego-death, or breakdowns, can lead to some of our biggest breakthroughs. You will love his unique take on creativity, meme creation, communication, and art!  If you want to tap into your intuition to figure out how to cultivate curiosity, intuition, and creativity in your life then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to tap into your own creative intuition!   Episode Highlights: How he built his community around meme creation.  The importance of staying a student of life to cultivate wisdom.  His creative process for making memes and his connection to the muse.  The different forms his creativity has taken over the years.  How spirituality and creativity are interconnected.  The artists, poets, and creators who inspire his work.  The difference between the ego and the higher self.  How to tap into higher self and quiet the ego.  How he navigates the political landscape online.  Why breakdowns can sometimes lead to breakthroughs.  The important role of pain and grief in opening up our capacity to feel.  Why we as a society are so afraid of sadness and pain.  Our place in the universal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.  The power of embracing your cringe in everyday life.  Why you should accept the great unknown to connect to the magic of life.  His most popular meme and how he created it.  Why triggering responses in people can sometimes be good for growth.  How the themes of his work evolve over time to help him make sense of the universe.  What he hopes others gain from his work.  Why he believes memes are a relevant form of art and communication.    Resources: James on Instagram Re-Creation Studio Website Work With James Sunflower Club Podcast  Sh#t Your Ego Says Book  How to Laugh in Ironic Amusement During Your Existential Crisis Book  Embrace Your Cringe Post When I Remember Post   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids