The internet is full of advice claiming that if you just wake up earlier, if you share only positivity, if you focus on only the best in life, then you’ll magically be healed.

But let us present a counterpoint: what if instead of ignoring our darkness, we embrace it? What if we move through darkness so we don’t dread each sunset, but view it as an opportunity to turn inward, to really listen to ourselves and find alignment so we’re ready for the sunrise?

And that, dear friends, is Carpe Noctem.

If you remember high school Latin, you know that carpe noctem means “seize the night.”

That’s what we’re inviting you to do here.

Instead of finding ways to give more, to be more, to become more, we want to be like the moon and embrace our phases.

We encourage you to take a moment each month to pause and turn your light inward, so it’s only for you. Let yourself be dark and removed from all responsibility, expectations, and other external pressures. Even if it’s just for one minute--Carpe Noctem and choose yourself.

Inspired by the moon’s cycles, we host events that will help you work through your darkness to create your own light--all with a focus on you.

Follow the Carpe Noctem Chronicles on Substack.

About the Hosts:

C. P. Alemdar - Your favorite sober Scorpio

Former bartender, lover of chaos and sad books, C. started on a journey to embrace darkness after a drinking break turned into an over 4 year sober life (and counting!). A writer, former educator, and soon-to-be certified mindfulness coach, C. leads Carpe Noctem workshops with a focus on reconnecting with your body and staying attuned to its needs. See her writing on @JoyJuice on Substack.

Demi Utley - Recovering "Realist"

After too many years putting corporate ambition ahead of self care, Demi had to reconnect with herself when her body started refusing to cooperate. A writer, small business owner, and idealist, Demi crafts creative exercises for Carpe Noctem workshops to inspire you to envision dreams that will make your inner "realist" shout in terror while your intuition and inner knowing tamp down on the criticism to create something beautiful. See her work under @DemiUtley on Substack.

Together C. and Demi create workshops full of vulnerability and creativity with a focus on facing your darkness so you can align with your true self.