About Us
In the fast-paced digital age we live in, where social media and rapid communication govern our lives, the age-old habit of journaling has gone into obscurity.
Journaling has been shown by counselors and mental health professionals to be an effective tool for uplifting the downtrodden, calming the anxious or agitated, and giving direction to the unsure. For a follower of Jesus, journaling elevates the process to a whole new level. It could start as a place to air out problems, feelings, and worries, but it quickly turns into discussions with the One Who holds perspective in His hands.
When combined with an artistic endeavor, His viewpoint becomes concrete and is easier to recall than mere words.
At NaviGate this is a guided process therefore no artistic expertise or skill is necessary.
My Story
I am Hannelie, and I have been married to Jan for almost 30 years. We have three amazing children. We are the tribe behind NaviGate Creative Journaling.
I used to be a qualified Optometrist by profession after which I gained experience in children’s ministry and program development. I am not qualified with book knowledge. What I have learned through time in the presence of the Lord is that abiding in Him, resting in Him, and worshipping Him in Spirit and Truth is my way out of an emotional crisis.
I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder after my car burst into flames in my driveway. Although I got out safely it was the final tick to a box of fear, anxiety, and stress that started very long ago as a child. It escalated over the next couple of years as I loaded more and more things into my life. As my to-do list grew larger, the feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed were a constant part of who I was. Unfortunately, my personality strives for perfectionism and excellence and a mere passing grade is not good enough, I want a distinction! All this added to my life slowly coming off the rails.
Through the years journaling and creativity became tools in my toolbox where I could find refuge under the shadow of His wings. I would never have thought that the Lord would use these two things, combining them to give me a blueprint, a “how to remain standing when things became tough”. This process still helps me every day to take my thoughts captive, to withdraw from the situation that is spinning out of control, and to step into His presence. At His feet, He exchanges my distorted perspectives for His.
At NaviGate I have the wonderful opportunity to guide those who cross my path through this process, not giving solutions to problems but guiding them to the One who has the answers.
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