Returning Home to Water

J wanted to return home to the water, in a “my body remembers this place” kind of way. And because I do underwater and outdoor boudoir, we got to make beautiful art while healing relationships with water. We started slow and honored whatever feelings showed up, because water can be soothing, but also intimidating as fuck.

If you’re not a strong swimmer, the deep end can feel scary. It’s not a personal failure, it’s a beautiful way your body protects you. So we met J exactly where they were at: no pressure, no rushing, no “just push through it” garbage. We focused on getting comfortable. There was lots of slow breathing, letting the water hold them, and finding the pace that felt right.

Damn, J was a badass. Once they matched their breath to the gentle movement of the water, there was a switch. They moved with this quiet power, like they were claiming space without needing to prove anything. At one point they even opened their eyes underwater - bold, grounded, and looking cool as hell.

I’m ridiculously proud of the artwork we made together. Underwater boudoir isn’t about being fearless or perfectly confident; it’s about building trust with your body and choosing what you’re ready for, moment by moment. If you’re plus size and/or queer and you’re craving images that feel like coming home to yourself, this is your reminder: we can go slow. We can make it gentle. And we can make it gorgeous.