Artist Statement
Attention to me is appreciating the simplest things amidst the joys and hardships of life. Throughout my medical school journey, I have rediscovered the importance of practicing self-care, gratitude, and embracing an abundance mindset. Being self-aware about our own health and optimizing it allows us to care for patients with the utmost compassion and generosity. Paying attention as future physicians means empathizing with patients at their most vulnerable moments and restoring hope in a brighter future. Attention and generosity are inherently interconnected because when providers are attentive to their patients’ health concerns, they can be generous with their time and energy by sharing their growing wealth of health information.
I chose this picture of a luscious, vivid pink tree enveloped by a shining streetlight because it illuminates an abundance mindset stemming from paying attention to the many blessings around us and realizing our endless potential. One of the main tools I utilize to recenter myself is going on nature walks, which helps me reconnect with the beauty around me and refocus on what truly matters. During these walks, pink flowers serve as a reminder of the abundance of joy, optimism, and grace around us. In all stages of life, when we embody these characteristics, we have the potential to radiate positivity, inspire others, and uplift our community-curating serenity in the process.
Recommended Citation
Banda, Archana
(2025)
"Curating Serenity,"
be Still: Vol. 10, Article 22.
Available at:
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/bestill/vol10/iss1/22
Included in
Creative Writing Commons, Fine Arts Commons, Medical Humanities Commons, Photography Commons
About the Artist
Archana Banda is a third-year medical student at Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine. Before medical school, she went to the University of Central Florida where she furthered her passions in biological sciences and the intersection of sociology and health through her major in Biology and minor in Medical Sociology. She graduated from UCF as a Burnett Honors and LEAD Scholars Academy Graduate. Her hobbies include discovering new healthy plant-based recipes, watching sunsets with friends and family, painting 3D textured florals, and going on calming nature walks. As an aspiring physician, she looks forward to sharing her love for nutrition, skincare, and preventative lifestyle measures to optimize holistic health.