From Photography Success to Spiritual Awakening
Today on La Vie Creative, I sat down with Bénédicte “Anu” Verley—an artist, retreat leader, and deeply inspiring human whose journey spans continents, careers, and inner transformation.
From building a thriving photography business in the United States to spending months in silence in India, Anu’s story is a powerful example of what happens when we listen to the deeper call within.
She now hosts transformative creative retreats in France, just outside Paris, at her beautiful retreat space, Lavender House.
A Childhood Rooted in Creativity & Play
Before creativity became a career, it was simply a way of life.
Anu grew up immersed in imagination—writing plays, performing with friends, creating music, and exploring freely outdoors. It was a time before screens, where creativity wasn’t curated—it was lived.
That early sense of play became the foundation for everything that followed.
When she received her first camera as a teenager, her artistic path began to take shape—but always from a place of curiosity and joy.
Building a Photography Business (and Feeling Something Missing)
Anu went on to create a highly successful photography business in the U.S., scaling it into a multi-photographer company.
At first, she was driven by:
- Growth and entrepreneurship
- Financial success
- Creative expansion
But even with success, something deeper was calling.
This is a turning point many creatives experience—what looks like “success” on the outside doesn’t always feel aligned on the inside.
The Role of India in Creativity & Healing
Anu began traveling to India, where she would spend extended periods in:
- Silence
- Meditation
- Spiritual exploration
She balanced two worlds:
- Six months running a business
- Six months in deep inner work
And instead of pulling her away from success, this practice enhanced it.
She became:
- More intuitive with clients
- More present in her work
- More connected on a human level
This is where creativity and mindfulness began to merge in her life.
A Life-Changing Spiritual Awakening
In 1999, Anu experienced a profound awakening—one that shifted her understanding of identity, mind, and purpose.
She describes it as recognizing that:
- Thoughts are not who we are
- Presence is more powerful than control
- Life unfolds when we stop forcing it
After this, she made a bold decision:
👉 She stepped away from her business and moved to Italy for five years.
This period gave her something she had been searching for all along—freedom.
Creativity Without Pressure: A New Way of Living
One of the most powerful insights from our conversation:
Creativity doesn’t come from pressure—it comes from presence.
In a world that constantly pushes productivity, Anu’s approach is refreshingly different.
She believes creativity flows when we:
- Slow down
- Create space
- Listen inward
This is especially important for those experiencing artist burnout or creative blocks.
Can You Make Money and Stay Creative?
This is one of the biggest questions creatives face.
Anu’s answer is simple—but powerful:
👉 You don’t have to choose.
Instead:
- Bring creativity into every type of work
- Approach even commercial projects with intention
- Use paid work to fund inspired ideas
Her early strategy—even offering free work to get started—allowed her to build a thriving business rooted in creativity.
Why We’re All Craving Connection Right Now
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, Anu sees a clear pattern:
People are not just seeking success—they are seeking connection.
More specifically:
- Real human connection
- Community
- Authentic expression
- Emotional honesty
This is why spiritual retreats in France and around the world are becoming more popular than ever.
Inside Lavender House: Creative Retreats Near Paris
Anu now hosts retreats at her space just outside Paris—designed to feel like:
👉 “Summer camp for the soul”
These retreats near Paris combine:
- Creative expression (writing, dancing, music)
- Deep inner work
- Community connection
- Play and joy
The goal isn’t just healing—it’s rediscovering aliveness.
Simple Practices to Reconnect With Yourself
If you’re feeling disconnected or creatively stuck, here are a few powerful practices Anu recommends:
1. Morning Pages
Inspired by Julia Cameron
Write freely each morning to clear your mind.
2. Daily Silence
Even 7 minutes of stillness can shift your entire day.
3. Movement
Dance, walk, or move your body to release emotions.
4. Emotional Honesty
Allow yourself to feel everything—without judgment.
What a Creative Life Really Means
Today, Anu defines a creative life not by output—but by presence.
It’s about:
- Slowing down
- Being fully engaged in the moment
- Bringing intention to everyday life
- Letting creativity flow naturally
This is the essence of creative life inspiration—and something we can all cultivate.
Listen to the Full Podcast Episode
If this story resonates with you, I highly recommend listening to the full conversation on La Vie Creative.
Connect with Bénédicte “Anu” Verley
Learn more about her retreats and community:
👉 www.caravanofbliss.org
Final Thoughts
We often think creativity comes from doing more.
But what if it actually comes from doing less?
From creating space.
From being present.
From reconnecting with ourselves.
And maybe that’s exactly what we need right now.
Instagram : @caravanofbliss @benedicteverley @benedicteverleyphotography
YouTube : @caravanofbliss
Substack : caravanofbliss.substack.com
