An Interview with Jan Hreha-Fiehler
Jan Hreha-Fiehler is a native Arizonian and true lover of the ocean’s tide. Jan graduated from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition while furthering her studies into areas of business development, marketing, coaching, multicultural wellness and the science and art of personal transformation. Her writings are her own intuitive expressions materializing into a divine and sacred journey of hope and healing. It’s with a fun spirit and passion that she motivates through permissions, inspiration, and grace. Jan aspires to impact women through her writings and to further encourage growth and expression through her journaling circles and group presentations, The Art of Journaling.
Tell us the story of your book’s title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
The title of my book came naturally to me. In traveling the many dimensions of my life’s journey, it has caused me to take pause in reminding myself to breathe, just breathe. It’s such a great reminder to us all.
How did it feel when you first saw your book cover? Or when you first held your book in your hands?
When I saw a draft of my cover for the first time, I knew that was it! The font and colors were exactly what I had envisioned, I was thrilled! But, when I saw the ocean view, I said “Wait, that’s not my ocean!” I quickly got to work on finding one of my personal ocean scenes where I walked, journaled, and collected treasure. The beach landscape, currently the cover, made an immediate connection with my heart and soul. It was a sacred refuge where unknowingly the gestation of a story was developing deep within. When I held the finished product in my hands I had an immediate connection, and I wanted that for my readers too.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
I’ve been journaling for over twenty-five years. I love the art of penmanship and words. I love being able to express the depths of who I am across the paper. My mom often told me I should write a book, but it wasn’t until after her passing that the Lord nudged me and clearly said, “It’s time to write the book!” I said, “YES!” It was through much love and encouragement that my ‘sister of the heart,’ my cousin, mentored me in writing Breathe, Just Breathe. Grieving, writing, and now sharing it is truly a gift that came full circle.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I am a certified health coach in nutrition and lifestyle. I love helping people to better connect with their body through self-care.
What was the most rewarding/meaningful part of publishing your book?
The most meaningful and rewarding aspects of publishing Breathe, Just Breathe are the heartfelt stories, the tears, and the genuine connection I share with my readers. It’s real and relatable on so many levels.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from reading your book? How do you envision your perfect reader?
I hope the reader is affirmed that they are not alone. That the package our stories come in may be very different, but the depth of what’s inside is very much the same. I hope they are able to melt into the story yet find inspiration, encouragement, and permissions that they can grant to themselves.
What creative projects are you currently working on?
Currently, I am creating and facilitating journaling circles for women. I want to encourage women to create a safe space for themselves where they are able to experience their own vulnerabilities. I want to model from my own experience just how divine a pen-to-paper relationship can manifest into release, guidance, and so much beauty.
How was working with Atmosphere Press? What would you tell other writers who want to publish?
Working with Atmosphere Press was a perfect first experience! Step-by-step guidance throughout the entire process and continues after publishing. I am so grateful, because I knew not a thing about publishing. Friendly, professional, and gentle with the newbies.
Are you a writer, too? Submit your manuscript to Atmosphere Press.
Atmosphere Press is a selective hybrid publisher founded in 2015 on the principles of Honesty, Transparency, Professionalism, Kindness, and Making Your Book Awesome. Our books have won dozens of awards and sold tens of thousands of copies. If you’re interested in learning more, or seeking publication for your own work, please explore the links below.