Release to Rise: What Letting Go Really Means—and How Energy Art Can Help

Release isn’t the end — it’s the beginning. Let your space and your spirit rise.

The Four Energies of Transformation

We all move through seasons of growth. Sometimes gently. Sometimes through challenge. Over time, I’ve come to see that most of us cycle through four core energies: Release, Attract, Connect, and Evolve.

Sometimes they unfold in order. Sometimes they overlap. Sometimes we revisit one again and again.

Release creates space. Attract invites in what’s ready. Connect restores meaning and belonging. Evolve is the natural unfolding of who we are becoming. Each energy supports a different phase of transformation — both internally and in the spaces we live in. In this article, we’re exploring Release — what it really means, how to recognize it, and how energy art can support you through it.

Release isn’t the end — it’s the beginning. When you let go of what no longer supports you, you create space to feel lighter, clearer, and more aligned — and to allow something new to rise.

We talk a lot about “letting go” — of clutter, stress, old stories, or patterns that no longer fit. But release isn’t about forcing change or fixing yourself. It’s about noticing what you’re ready to loosen and allowing your space to support that shift.

The Release Collection was created for those moments when life feels heavy, crowded, or out of alignment — and you sense that something wants to change, even if you don’t yet know what comes next.

Release doesn’t rush you. It doesn’t ask you to become someone else. It simply creates space —so you can move forward carrying less, and living more in alignment with where you are now.

What It Really Means to Release

Releasing doesn’t mean giving up. It means making space.

During a four-hour silent meditation, I received a message that became the heart of this collection: “For everything I release, something new and better will come.” That wisdom continues to guide both my life and my art.

Release is a conscious choice to free yourself from energy that no longer supports who you are now — without denial, judgment, or force.

You might be releasing:

  • limiting beliefs about what’s possible for you

  • emotional weight you’ve carried for too long

  • stories that no longer feel true

  • the pressure to be someone you’re not

  • physical or energetic clutter that creates stress in your space

On the other side of release is lightness.
Clarity.
Breathing room.


Release #10 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #10 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit. Lightness lives on the other side of release.

How You Know You’re in the Release Phase

You may be in a Release phase if:

• You feel emotionally or mentally heavy and can’t quite name why
• You’re suddenly aware that certain habits, roles, or expectations don’t fit anymore
• You crave simplicity — fewer obligations, less noise, more space
• You’re questioning old stories about who you “should” be
• You feel the urge to declutter — not just your home, but your life
• You sense something new wants to emerge, but first something must be let go

Release doesn’t always look dramatic.
Often, it’s quiet. Subtle. A deep exhale you didn’t realize you were holding.


Release #5 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release what no longer serves. Rise into what’s calling.

What Release Energy Supports

The energy of Release supports spaces where you want to:

  • feel calmer and more grounded

  • soften emotional or mental clutter

  • move through transitions with steadiness

  • create room for healing, clarity, and renewal

This work doesn’t push or provoke.
It works quietly — like a deep exhale your body already knows how to take.

Place it where you reflect, reset, or breathe deeply. Let it support your own release—again and again.

How Energy Art Supports This Phase

Art is energy made visible. It’s not just something you look at — it’s something you live with.

The pieces in the Release Collection are created to hold the feeling of letting go: flowing forms, gentle dissolves, soft movement, and spaciousness. Each one is designed to support release in a way that feels safe, natural, and supportive over time.

Placed in a space where you pause, reflect, or reset, the art becomes a quiet ally — a reminder that you’re allowed to loosen your grip, and that release can be soft.

Explore Release Through the Saturday Night Energy Art Shows

I share the Release Collection through my Saturday Night Energy Art Shows, where I talk about the intention behind the work and show how different pieces express different forms of letting go.

These short videos offer a visual, intuitive way to experience the collection — and to see how Release energy shows up in real spaces like bedrooms, living rooms, and quiet corners meant for rest and reflection.

👉 Watch “Release” Saturday Night Energy Art Shows

 

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DUM5f4RhN5Y

The Release Collections

Within the Release umbrella, I’ve created several focused series. Each one supports letting go from a slightly different angle, so you can follow what resonates most with where you are right now.

👉Looking Ahead Series
Releasing the past while staying grounded as you step into what’s next.

👉Calling the New Light Series
Gentle shifts after endings, inviting clarity and fresh perspective.

👉 Letting Go & Lightening the Soul Series
Softening emotional weight and restoring ease.

👉Stories from the Past Series
Honoring old experiences without letting them define the present.

👉Regenerate & Renew Series
Rest, restoration, and gentle rebuilding after change.

👉 View the Full Release Collection on Pixels

How To Enhance Your Space With This Collection

Release energy art works beautifully in spaces where you pause, reflect, rest, or reset.

You might place a piece from the Release Collection:

• In a bedroom to soften emotional weight at the end of the day
• In a meditation or journaling corner where you process and reflect
• In a living room where you want calm to replace tension
• Near an entryway as a reminder that you don’t need to carry everything inside

Choose artwork in colors that relax you and that feels like breathing room — softer tones, open space, gentle movement.

Release art works quietly. When your environment reflects spaciousness, your nervous system responds. And letting go begins to feel safe.

Not Sure Where to Begin?

 Take the quiz. If you’re unsure which energy your space needs right now — Release, Attract, Connect, or Evolve — I created a short quiz to help guide you.


What Does Your Space Say About Your Energy? Your space is more than just décor—it’s a mirror of your energy. This 5-question quiz will help you discover the energy your home is holding—and what you’re ready to attract.


Take the Quiz

A Final Note

Release doesn’t rush you. It doesn’t ask you to become someone else. It simply creates space — so you can move forward carrying less and living more in alignment with where you are now.

See My Latest Energy Art

Art Prints

Are You Ready to Let Go of What No Longer Supports You?

If your heart is saying yes, I’d love to support you.

  • Aligned Design — personalized design guided by your energy, your goals, and your soul.
  • Custom Energy Art — sacred, one-of-a-kind artwork created to support your specific intention

Let’s align your space—and your energy—to call in what’s next.


A transformational design experience that aligns Art, Science and Energy to Make Magic Happen in your Home and Life. Includes Interior Design, Color and Energy alignment advice to create a space perfectly aligned with you. We'll use Energy Art, personalized to reflect your true self, as the foundation of your space's transformation.


Commission custom energy art.



Online or In Person?






Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today




The Four Energies of Transformation: Release, Attract, Connect, and Evolve

What Does The Energy of Transformation Look Like?

Growth isn’t a straight line. It’s a dance, a cycle, a rhythm that moves us closer to who we truly are. Along the way, we find ourselves returning to familiar energies at different times in our journey. These four energies—Release, Attract, Connect, and Evolve—are the heartbeat of transformation.

They are not steps to check off a list. They are living energies that weave through our lives, guiding us gently but powerfully toward alignment with our authentic selves. When you understand which energy you’re moving through, you can start working with it.

Let’s explore these four energies and how they support your sacred journey. Know that your space—through thoughtful design and energy art—can be a powerful ally, supporting you in every stage of this beautiful cycle

Release: Letting Go to Rise

Transformation usually begins with letting go.

Release is about creating space. It’s the brave act of loosening our grip on what no longer serves us—old beliefs, outdated patterns, cluttered spaces, relationships, or even versions of ourselves we have outgrown.

Release is not about loss; it’s about freedom.

When we release, we lighten our load and make room for what is truly meant for us. We shift our energy from holding on to opening up.

Energy Art for Release helps anchor this sacred act of surrender, offering a visual reminder that letting go is a gift you give yourself.


Release #2 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #2 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Release energy art office
Roots of Forgotten Light energy art and design by Mary Ann Benoit. Click on the picture to see my Saturday Night Live Art Show.

Attract: Opening to Receive

Once space is made, a beautiful thing happens: we become magnetic.

Attract is the energy of invitation. It’s the quiet confidence that comes from knowing we are worthy of receiving love, abundance, joy, and all that aligns with our highest good.

Attract isn’t about striving or chasing. It’s about matching your inner energy to the frequency of what you desire. For most of us, that means attracting the things that truly nourish our lives—health, wealth, and love.

Energy Art for Attract holds the vibration of possibility, helping you cultivate openness and draw to you what your soul seeks.


Saturday Night Live Art Shows- "Prosperity Energy Art and Edesign
“Prosperity” energy artand interior design by Mary Ann Benoit. Click on the picture to see it in action in my Saturday Night Live Art Show.

Prosperity energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
“Prosperity” by Mary Ann Benoitt

Connect: The Heart of Belonging

Connection is the thread that ties it all together.

Connect is the energy of relationship—to self, to others, to the Universe. It’s remembering that we are not separate but part of something vast, beautiful, and interconnected.

Through connection, we find meaning, purpose, and the deep sense of belonging we all crave.

Energy Art for Connect helps you anchor into this truth, inviting deeper relationships, intuitive insight, and heart-centered living.


Energy art titled “Roots of Forgotten Light” featuring the Tree of Life rising from the ancient energy of Mu, overlaid with sacred symbols including the Fractal Heart.
Roots of Forgotten Light #12

Roots of Forgotten Light #12 energy art and interior design by Mary Ann Benoit
“Roots of Forgotten Light” energy art and interior design by Mary Ann Benoit Click on the picture to see it in my Saturday Night Live Art Show.

Evolve: Becoming Who You Are Meant to Be

When release, attraction, and connection begin to integrate, evolution naturally unfolds.

Evolve is the unfolding of your truest self. It’s the energy of growth, expansion, and stepping into your highest potential.

Evolving isn’t about becoming someone different—it’s about shedding layers that hide your brilliance.

Energy Art for Evolve supports this beautiful journey, carrying the energy of empowerment, clarity, and the courage to live authentically.


Interior design of a dining area highlighting Radiant Bloom energy art, both by Mary Ann Benoit. The Orange rose energy art design is layered with sacred symbols such as the Seed of Life, Tree of Life and fractal art heart, to inspire passion, confidence, and soulful living.
Energy art, Radiant Bloom and Interior design by Mary Ann Benoit. Click on the picture to see my Saturday Night Live Art Show.

"Radiant Bloom" energy art includes orange rose energy art layered with sacred symbols, styled in a warm and inviting interior dining space to inspire passion, confidence, and soulful living.
“Radiant Bloom” by Mary Ann Benoit

A Sacred Cycle

These energies—Release, Attract, Connect, and Evolve—aren’t a checklist. They’re a sacred cycle we move through again and again as we grow.

Sometimes we are called to release. Sometimes we are ready to attract. Other times, we are deepening connections or expanding into new versions of ourselves.

Wherever you are, trust that you are exactly where you need to be.

If you feel called to discover which energy is most present for you right now, I invite you to take my quiz:

⭐ What Does Your Space Say About Your Energy?

Or simply explore the Energy Art Collections:

  • Release Energy Art for Letting Go and Lightening the Soul

  • Attract What You Are Ready To Welcome Into Your Life

  • Connect With What Matters Most

  • Evolve, Transform and Grow

And sometimes, we feel the need to embrace all these energies at once—to release, attract, connect, and evolve together. For those moments, explore the Sacred Journey: The Art of Alignment collection, a body of work created to integrate all four energies into one cohesive expression.

Your space. Your energy. Your journey.

When you align with the energy you need most, you align with your highest self.

And when you are aligned, life begins to move with you instead of against you.


Sacred Journey energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Sacred Journey energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Sacred Journey energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
When you align your space with your soul’s journey, transformation follows. Release, attract, connect, and evolve — all in one sacred expression.

See My Latest Energy Art

Art Prints

What Does Your Space Say About Your Energy?

 Your space is more than just décor—it’s a mirror of your energy.
This 5-question quiz will help you discover the energy your home is holding—and what you’re ready to attract. Click the image below to find out if you are ready to release, attract, connect or evolve.


What Does Your Space Say About Your Energy? Your space is more than just décor—it’s a mirror of your energy. This 5-question quiz will help you discover the energy your home is holding—and what you’re ready to attract.


Take the Quiz

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today




What Are You Holding Onto? 5 Signs It’s Time to Release

5 Signs It’s Time to Release

We often think of letting go as something dramatic—an emotional goodbye, a ceremonial bonfire, maybe even some dramatic music playing in the background.
But real release? It’s quieter.
It’s that small, persistent whisper that says: this no longer fits.

Release isn’t about losing—it’s about creating space. Space for healing, clarity, and all the good things waiting to find you once you finally let go of what’s been weighing you down.

(Trust me: that old story you’ve been carrying? It’s heavier than you think.)

1. You Feel Stuck—No Matter How Hard You Try

You’re doing all the “right” things—vision boards, journaling, maybe even color-coding your planner—and still… crickets.
Sometimes it’s not about trying harder. Sometimes it’s about loosening your grip and making room for something better.
Release clears the runway so you can finally take off.

That wisdom continues to guide both my life and my art.


Release #4 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #4 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

2. The Same Old Stories Keep Playing on Repeat

You know that playlist you’ve been looping in your mind? The one with all the doubts, fears, and what-ifs?
Yeah, it’s time to hit stop.
Release helps you retire the old soundtrack and write a new score—one that actually sounds like you.


Release #10 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #10 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Release #10 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Lightness lives on the other side of release.

3. Your Energy Feels Heavy or Scattered

You wake up tired even after eight hours of sleep. Your to-do list feels overwhelming. Your brain feels like a browser with 47 tabs open.
That heaviness isn’t laziness—it’s old energy hanging around past its expiration date.
Release it, and you might just find clarity (and your missing car keys).


Release #3 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #3 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

4. You Find Yourself Clinging to What’s Comfortable, Not What’s Right

Sure, comfort zones feel cozy. (That’s why we like them.)
But they’re also where dreams quietly go to die.
If you’re staying just because it’s familiar, it might be time to trade comfort for courage.
Release helps you step into the unknown—where all the magic happens.

5. Deep Down, You Know

Even if you can’t explain it, there’s that little voice inside.
The one that gently (or sometimes not so gently) says: It’s time.
Spoiler alert: that voice is usually right.
Trust it. Release what no longer fits, and watch what opens up.

The Gentle Power of Release

Letting go isn’t giving up—it’s opening up.
It’s choosing to create space for what’s next. It’s trusting that lighter and clearer are not just possible but waiting for you.

That’s the energy behind my Release series—art created with flowing textures, soft dissolves, and sacred symbols like the Fractal Heart and Seed of Life.
Art that holds the vibration of surrender, healing, and new beginnings.

Because the more we release, the more we rise.

🌿 Ready to begin your release?
Take the next step and explore Release to Rise: What Letting Go Really Means—and How Energy Art Can Help.


Release #5 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Release #5 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #5 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

The More You Release…

he more you release, the more space there is for clarity, healing, inspiration, new beginnings, and the life you’re ready to create.

Let your space hold that truth for you.
Let your art help you rise.



Release #3 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #3 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Release #3 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #3 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Art That Supports Your Release

I invite you to explore the Release Collection—artwork created to support your journey of letting go. Each piece is an energetic companion, infused with sacred symbols like the Fractal Heart and Seed of Life to support your healing journey.and the healing intention to help you breathe easier, feel lighter, and create space for what’s next.


Seed of Life energy art by Mary Ann Benoit


The fractal art hear is a signature overlayed in all my energy art pieces.


Release #12 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #12 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

Release #12 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit
Release #12 energy art by Mary Ann Benoit

See My Latest Energy Art

Art Prints

Stay in the Flow

Want to hear more from me? Get first dibs on new art releases, behind-the-scenes creative energy, and little light-filled reminders—sign up for my newsletter below. I only send the good stuff. Get a free art collectors guide for your time.


Art Collector's Guide to Attact Prosperity with Art


Attract Prosperity Now

What Does Your Space Say About Your Energy?

Your space is more than just décor—it’s a mirror of your energy.
This 5-question quiz will help you discover the energy your home is holding—and what you’re ready to attract. Click the image below to find out.


What Does Your Space Say About Your Energy? Your space is more than just décor—it’s a mirror of your energy. This 5-question quiz will help you discover the energy your home is holding—and what you’re ready to attract.


Take the Quiz

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today




Embracing Renewal: The Power of Regeneration

Embracing Renewal: The Transformative Power of Letting Go

As an energy artist and interior designer, I’ve experienced how art can truly transform our lives. This inspired me to create “A Message from the Universe,” an oracle deck filled with energy art to help you connect with your true self. Each card delivers universal wisdom tailored to your current journey.​

Today, I drew the “Regenerate” card—a gentle reminder of life’s ongoing cycles of growth and renewal. Whenever you come across this message, know it’s meant just for you.


Regenerate energy art for the Message from the Universe digital oracle card deck on Deckible by Mary Ann Benoit.
Regenerate energy art for the Message from the Universe digital oracle card deck on Deckible by Mary Ann Benoit.

Regenerate energy art for the Message from the Universe digital oracle card deck on Deckible by Mary Ann Benoit.
Your message from the universe.

Understanding the Message of Regeneration

“Regenerate” invites introspection: Are there parts of yourself or your life that require healing, renewal, or release? It’s an opportunity to identify habits, beliefs, or relationships that may be hindering your progress and to consider whether it’s time to mend them or let them go.  


Regenerate Energy Art and Edesign.
Regenerate energy art and interior design by Mary Ann Benoit.

The Beauty of Letting Go

Releasing what doesn’t serve you creates space for something new and better. It’s like pruning a tree; by removing dead or overgrown branches, you allow for healthier growth and vitality. Let go of outdated patterns or attachments for a more authentic and enriched life.​

Steps Toward Renewal

  1. Self-Reflection: Take time to meditate or journal about areas in your life that feel unfulfilling or draining.​

  2. Acknowledge and Accept: Recognize the aspects that need change without judgment. Acceptance is a crucial step toward transformation.​

  3. Set Intentions: Decide what you wish to release and what you want to invite into your life.​

  4. Take Action: Implement small, manageable steps toward letting go and embracing new practices or perspectives.​

  5. Seek Support: Connect with friends, family, or professionals who can provide guidance and encouragement during this process.


Regenerate Energy Art and Edesign.
Regenerate energy art and interior design by Mary Ann Benoit.

See my Regenerate energy art collection for great ideas on how to bring this energy to your space.

Embracing the New

​Letting go of the past opens the door to new opportunities and energies. Trust that this renewal brings you closer to your true self, leading to greater happiness and fulfillment.​

Remember, regeneration isn’t about forgetting the past but learning and growing from it, continually becoming the best version of yourself. The universe supports you in this journey, guiding you toward a life that reflects your true essence.

Discover Your Path: A Message from the Universe Oracle Deck


A Message from the Universe Oracle card deck by Mary Ann Benoit on Deckible.


Saturday Night Live Art Shows- "A Message From The Universe" oracle card deck on Deckible.

Discover daily inspiration with the A Message from the Universe oracle deck. This digital collection features 52 energy-infused art cards, each offering guidance to align you with your authentic self and support your personal growth. Each card links to a Saturday Night Live Art Show, where you can see it in a room, enhancing your connection to the art and its message. 

Available exclusively on Deckible, the leading app for digital card decks, you can easily incorporate these messages into your daily routine. Download the Deckible app on your iOS or Android device to access the deck and begin your transformative journey.​

For a visual introduction to the deck, watch the following video:

https://youtu.be/G9bl3YTrzVo

Get Your Message From The Universe Now

Enter the Raffle to Win a Free Deck


Win a free oracle deck!


Why Work with Northern Lights Home Staging and Design

Aligned Design©– All Rights Reserved.

Terms of Service  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer |  Brochure

Prices are subject to change without notice.

Call 907-362-0065 today