About Me

I admit that I am not the best when it comes to writing about myself. More specifically, writing about who I am as a whole person. But for the sake of this blog I will make an effort to present both the good and not so good parts of my life and personality to whoever wishes to know. To start, let’s list some quick facts

• My name is pronounced Uele (way-lay) Nayo (NIGH-yo)
• I currently live in Columbus, Ohio.
• Writing and photography are two of my main passions. At my current job I am able to do both at different capacities, but one day I hope to make them my full time work. I love the ability to create and share those creations with others, and writing and photography have given me a sense of voice that I did not have for a long time.
• I am a peer recovery supporter and tai chi instructor.
• I love nature. I admit I am not an expert on the outdoors, but slowly and surely I am trying to learn as much as I can. I love journeying through the Hocking Hills close to home, as well as exploring the lands that are foreign to me. I crave the tranquility that nature brings, and some of my best memories have come from being outdoors.
• Movies and Television are a big deal. Like many people, I love watching movies and TV shows. Any genre can catch my attention and take me to a world that is unlike my own. Comedies lift my spirits. Dramas cause me to reflect. There are times where I am so moved that tears come to my eyes, and I don’t even bother to cover them up. Art should make you feel.
• My mind is a little messed up. Like many people in this country and abroad, I have mental health issues. As of today I have been diagnosed with bipolar and anxiety. Since I was a child I can remember feeling like something was different with me when it came to my mind, but it hasn’t been since recently that I have really started to understand. I do take medication but I know that it cannot be the only source of me getting better. It comes from somewhere within me. I am not ashamed of my mental illness, but I do not want it to control my life. If you keep up with my blog, you will learn more about my recovery journey.
• I own a business. In 2020, as a gift to myself for my 25th birthday, I decided to start a business. River of Joy Studios is a website where I share content that I hope will encourage others who are going through difficult times. River of Joy Studios creates inspiring messages for those who feel lost in life yet hold onto hope for tomorrow. If you’d like to learn more, please visit www.riverofjoystudios.com.

I think that is enough about me for right now, but if you keep up with this blog you will learn much more about me. Goodbye for now, I will write to you soon.

-Uele Nayo

Photo by: Christopher Keels