We had the good fortune of connecting with Margie Woods and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Margie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
For the past 30 years, art has been my way home—to myself, to my emotions, to a sense of grounding when I am going through hard times. I’ve experienced firsthand how creativity can regulate the nervous system, process emotions, and create space for deep healing. I wanted to share this magic with other women who, like me, needed a way to reconnect with themselves.

I saw so many women struggling to prioritize themselves, feeling stuck, disconnected, and unsure how to access their creativity. I knew the answer could be found using art as a tool for self-awareness, self-care, and healing.

With my background in psychology, earning my masters in 2006, and my own lived experience of using art as a powerful tool in my healing from complex trauma, I created a space where women could explore art without pressure, establish a home practice that feels nourishing, and reconnect with themselves in a way that feels natural and freeing. What started as in-person workshops was n 2007 has grown into something bigger—an online space where I guide women in using creativity to slow down, listen, and come home to themselves.

This work is deeply personal to me. It’s not about the art itself—it’s about what the process gives us. And getting to share that? That’s everything for me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My personal art isn’t about making something “beautiful” in the traditional sense—it’s about self-connection, healing, and giving myself permission to show up exactly as I am. It is raw and deep, without a lot of polish. As a teacher and guide, I don’t teach people how to make perfect or polished art (though they do learn tons of fun techniques along the way); I guide them to use creativity as a way to slow down, process emotions, and reconnect with themselves. For me, art is a conversation with the soul, a practice of loosening up, letting go, and listening deeply.

What I’m most proud of—and most excited about—is witnessing the transformation that happens when women step into this kind of creative practice. Seeing someone go from feeling blocked, disconnected, or stuck in self-doubt to freely expressing themselves on the page is incredibly powerful. It’s why I do what I do.

My path to this work wasn’t easy. I’ve faced my own fears of being seen, of stepping into my voice, of navigating imposter syndrome. There were times I doubted whether I could turn my passion into something sustainable, whether people would understand what I offer. But every challenge became a lesson. I learned to trust the process—just like I teach in my art practice. I leaned into the discomfort, stayed committed to the work, and kept showing up.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that creativity is not a luxury—it’s essential. It’s how we process, how we heal, how we come home to ourselves. And that’s what I want the world to know about my brand and my story: this work isn’t about making art; it’s about coming home to yourself.

If my journey has taught me anything, it’s that healing, self-care, and creative expression are all deeply intertwined. My work exists to help women step into that truth, to claim their creativity as a tool for self-care, and to give themselves permission to show up fully—both on the page and in their lives.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, it would be a mix of adventure, creativity, and deep, soul-nourishing moments. We’d start with a relaxed brunch at a cozy café, catching up over coffee and treats before heading out for a long walk, soaking in the energy of the place. One of the highlights would be a day on my boat, sailing around the bay, feeling the energy of the ocean, and letting the ocean work its magic. We’d drop anchor somewhere beautiful, have a picnic, and simply be present. Another day would be spent hiking in nature, finding a trail with breathtaking views, fresh air, and space for those deep, unfiltered conversations that only happen while walking side by side. Afterward, we’d unwind at a spa or hot springs, letting the day settle into our bones before heading to a cozy dinner spot.

No visit would be complete without time in my art studio. We’d dedicate a full day to playful, intuitive creating—no expectations, just the joy of being in process. We’d break for a homemade lunch or something fresh from a local bakery before diving back in, ending the day with a glass of wine or tea, reflecting on what surfaced through the creative process. Another day would be spent exploring—wandering through art galleries, bookstores, or hidden little shops, soaking in inspiration from unexpected places. We’d find a cute café or food market for lunch and, depending on our mood, end the night with a cozy evening in, curled up with blankets and more deep talks.

As the trip winds down, we’d spend a slow morning walking by the water, reflecting on the week before heading to a for a final meal. We would savor the last moments together. I’d send her off with a love note for the road and the promise of another adventure soon. This trip wouldn’t be about checking off tourist spots—it would be about presence, connection, creativity, and joy adn lots of art and nature. The kind of week that lingers in your soul long after it’s over.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance, inspiration, and support of so many incredible people. First and foremost, my deepest gratitude goes to my first art teachers—Laurie Doctor, Deb Jones, and Orly Avineri—who opened the door for me to see art as more than just technique, but as a soulful, expressive, and healing practice. Their influence continues to shape my work and how I show up as both an artist and a guide for others.

I also have so much love and appreciation for my friends, family, and my amazingly supportive boyfriend, who believe in me even when I doubt myself, who hold space for my dreams, and who remind me to keep going when the path feels uncertain.

A special shoutout to my therapist, Ingrid Clayton PhD, who has been instrumental in my healing on this new level. She not only supports me in my own process but also inspires me in the way she shows up, shares her work, and puts herself out into the world with such courage and authenticity.

And, of course, my amazing and brave clients—the women who show up for themselves, embrace creativity as a path to healing, and do the deep, courageous work of reconnecting with their true selves. They inspire me daily, and it’s an honor to walk alongside them in this journey.

On a larger scale, Elizabeth Gilbert and Brené Brown have been huge influences in how I think about creativity, vulnerability, and courage. Their work has given me permission to embrace imperfection, trust the process, and lean into the magic of showing up—both in art and in life.

This journey isn’t one I walk alone, and I’m endlessly grateful for the people who have walked beside me.

Website: https://languageofthesoulart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/language_of_the_soul_studio/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/languageofthesoulart/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/languageofthesoul

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@margiewoods3658

Image Credits
andrea scher

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.