The past year has not been an easy ride for anybody, but we’ve been doing our best to see the sunny side of things amidst all the crazy. @afffirmations is an IG account on our wavelength. Managed by Matteus Benkestoch, the feed mixes statements that promote love, gratefulness and strength with box pop cultural imagery together with snaps of peaceful yet sort-of psychedelic natural scenes. We spoke to Matteus to ask him all about what prompted him to start our new favourite IG account.
What prompted you to start @afffirmations?
I wanted to create a wholly new expression, combining both a specific artistic vision with positive insight. You might say I’m trying to make wellness less boring!
Where do you source the images from in your posts?
The images are found all over the place … I enjoy neutral pictures … Most of them are taken from real estate firms, architectural bureaus, travel agencies, celebrity magazines, etc.
How do you come up with your affirmations?
By now, the affirmations just manifest themselves (he-he) naturally. Throughout the day, I will get different ideas. I always bring pen and paper with me. It’s important for me to stress that the affirmations by no means are the result of an autobiographical reflection of my daily life …
What do you do to keep positive during difficult times?
I try to stay patient while enduring hardships. It also helps acknowledging and being grateful for those small things, that make my life more comfortable and enjoyable. Like having a bed, or stable Wi-Fi connection.
Why do you think it is important for us to look after our mental health?
Our mental well-being is connected to our physical well-being. In order for our body to function properly, we need to treat our mind with great care and respect. People go for walks to stay fit. My view is that it’s equally important to take some time off to think and meditate, in order to stimulate our mental well-being.
What is your favourite affirmation?
«I have not changed for the worse lately.»
What are your plans for the future of @afffirmations?
I simply don’t know! I’m not much of a planner. You might say I trust in God, and let it all happen. I don’t rush things. Everything happens for the best. I hope I’ll be able to continue doing what I love: That is, making beautiful pictures, writing strong affirmations, summoning forth emotional reactions from the audience. I consider what I’m doing to be art! And being able to make art is a privilege – I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
