IL Muses: Conversation with Jinti Fell

We spoke to our muse Jinti Fell, a longtime friend of Indigo Luna and co-creator of our very first collaboration.

She shared with us her journey of motherhood, living intentionally, and trusting her inner compass.

Her words below ↓

You’ve made bold, unconventional life choices—like living in a van, to having four home births. How do you stay true to what feels right for you, even when it goes against societal norms?

Hmm when I was younger I very much wanted to do what was expected of me and what I thought I “should” do. When I became a mother I was inspired to get really clear on what I truly wanted in life. I knew my daughter was watching me — if I wanted her to go after her dreams in life, I needed to be the example and choose to go after and create my own dreams.

I think if we want what everyone else has got then we should copy them. But if we want something different, to create change, then we simply cannot be acting in the same ways. I think our lives really begin when choose to be guided by our inner compass rather than external validation.

What helps you move forward with intention and not fear? How do you listen to your inner knowing and act on it?

I think slowing down enough to appreciate this moment — not getting to caught up in the past or the future means we can learn and grow from what life is giving us.

I also don’t think we should try and avoid fear, because when we do anything unknown or new fear shows up, and we can choose to not let it limit us. I like to think of fear as misdirected faith — when we are focusing on what we don’t want — noticing our fear gives us the opportunity to direct our attention back to what it is we do want.

I LOVE the quote about fear being excitement without the breath — so I am always reminding myself to take a loving deep breath when I notice fear the most.

Seven years ago, we co-created our first ever collaboration with you. What do you remember about that time in your life, and what drew you to Indigo Luna?

I remember having just my first daughter — still transitioning into the role of mother. Rediscovering myself.

I was drawn to IL at a time I was becoming more intentional with my purchases and introducing natural fabrics into my life. I remember just really feeling myself when I wore IL — and when your body has gone through so many changes, that feels special and gave me new found confidence.

What does a typical day in your life look like now?

I wake up to my youngest children around sunrise. We do breakfast beside the fire and slowly get ready for whatever we have planned for the day. I homeschool and we also live rurally on land. Lots of time outside either at the creek or beach. Connecting with friends and other homeschool families. Preparing food for the family, sorting and cleaning clothes, never ending dishes, bathing kids, reading books, answering a million questions are also all very normal parts of my day.

How has motherhood transformed you—emotionally, spiritually, and physically?

Hmm motherhood is a huge catalyst for self growth. My children have opened my heart and inspired me endlessly. I think in all the ways emotionally, spiritually and physically I want to be growing alongside them. They really are my teachers so much more than I am theirs. Motherhood is very humbling — just when you think you have it sorted a new lesson arises that makes you realise you actually don’t know anything… so I try and not take anything too seriously and always try and have fun.

You’ve birthed four children at home—what guided you to that path, and what did it teach you about yourself?

I believe that birth is a rite of passage — it’s so much more that a physical experience, it has the potential to deeply transform us by showing us our true power. It’s when we are the closest to God. Growing and birthing children is a miracle. So for me the biggest gift has been in connecting with that creative energy through my intuition and allowing it to guide me.

Amid the beautiful chaos of motherhood, how do you carve out space for yourself and avoid overstimulation? Do you have any words of love for other mamas walking this path?

When I first became a mother I would feel guilty doing anything for myself. But I have come to see that caring for myself is caring for my family. When I am nourished I have the capacity to be loving and patient. When I am depleted I become more resentful and reactive. I think intentionally doing less has been one of the most supportive decisions I have made as a mother. Don’t keep up with everyone else. Say no to things that drain your energy. Surrender to this season of life. So often our struggles come from thinking things should be different to how they are. How willing are you to accept life exactly as it is right now? The answer to that can either bring a lot of peace or create more resistance.

What does “nourishment” mean to you—not just in food, but in life and in motherhood?

To me it’s a commitment to really living rather than just surviving. It’s about exploring pleasure, seeing the beauty and being in a state of gratitude — that’s a nourished life.

When life feels heavy, what grounding rituals or practices help bring you back to love and clarity?

Sunshine, or some sort of element like being near water or fire. Connecting with my body and breath through self massage or movement. Right now it’s winter so I am LOVING sauna and listening to books while I stretch and sweat — literally makes me feel like a new person.

Jinti’s Recommendations:

Favourite song: Ho'oponopono by The Emmitt Sisters

Favourite Book: The Game of Life and How to Play it by Florence Scovell Shinn

Favourite movie/ series/ documentary: I rarely watch anything — but “Nobody Wants This” is the most recent thing I have seen and loved. I'm excited for season 2.

Favourite word of wisdom that you like / mantra: “I look with wonder at that which is before me”

Favourite piece of clothing from Indigo Luna or your most worn pieces: I’m currently obsessed with my new Agni skirt in the mauve colour — I wear it with the moon tube top and a Tuula poncho!