Ella Kosmin - MA Photography
Mayim Chayim/Small Joys in Survival Mode
Growing up, my Aunty would regularly use the phrase “mayim chaiyim” - ״מים חים ״- this directly translates to “living waters”. Until recently, I was unaware of its true meaning and how this compliment holds value. This phrase encapsulates the notion of someone who is able to gracefully deal with life’s ups and downs. Jews believe that whatever challenges we may face, in order to survive and thrive, we should aim to be adaptable like water and find a way to adjust to our circumstances and environment. This phrase subconsciously influenced the subject matter choice for my project.
My family and I have been directly impacted by war over the last few years and it has obviously affected our wellbeing. Returning back to the U.K and having to deal with the impact war has on my mental state, urges me to reconsider what truly brings me joy.
Throughout this project, I will be primarily focusing on waterscapes and objects nearby water, documenting how I worked through traumatic events as a person with ADHD and why the slow dopamine cycle is essential to regulating one’s nervous system.
