Being the Phoenix is a framework for the inner development of individual change-makers, built on the principles of transformation, renewal, and interconnectedness, inspired by the More-than-Human system of composting. It envisions growth as a cyclical process, where breakdown and regeneration are not endpoints but essential stages of evolution. Just as composting turns decay into nourishment, Being the Phoenix embraces the idea that personal and collective change arises from the ability to let go, decompose outdated structures, and cultivate new possibilities. Through this framework, individuals are invited to engage in reflective practices, embrace impermanence, and channel transformation into meaningful action. At its core, Being the Phoenix is a call to rethink the way we approach change; not as a linear journey, but as a dynamic, living cycle of sacrifice, integration, and rebirth.
Institution
MA Service Design, University of the Arts London
Course Unit
Collaborative Practice
Year
2025
Project Context
Postgraduate Project
Much like the cyclical nature of composting and the life cycle of fauna and flora, energy merely shifts from one host to another; it cannot be created nor destroyed. From waking up to unsettling global events to absorbing the frustration of a loved one in a bad mood, we often go through our days unconsciously collecting negative energy. This energy accumulates, feeding an inner fire that, if left unchecked, may eventually erupt in unintended ways, transferring the burden onto another. Without an intentional outlet, we risk perpetuating this endless cycle of emotional transference, passing on negativity rather than transforming it.
Being the Phoenix draws inspiration from the More-than-Human system of composting to identify key principles to inform a framework to support the inner change of a ‘changemaker’. They key theme of transformation was the constant recurring quality through the interactions with the More-than-Human system, and this stemmed from the identified principles, cyclical, transformative, liberation, unhurried, and nurturing.
Just as composting turns organic matter into nourishment through decomposition, so too can our internal ‘fire’, that is, our pent-up emotions, frustrations, and burdens, to be processed and transformed into something generative. The project presents a framework that guides individuals through a transformation by cathartic release, redirecting energy in a way that fosters personal renewal and contributes to the world around them.
This framework is a meditative and intentional process designed to transmute internal negativity into outward regeneration. It unfolds in the following steps:
1
Pause and Reflect: Identifying the Fire
Begin by taking the time to pause and be connected with your body, mind, and soul. Be in a quiet spot and search deep within to identify what you want to let go. Be honest and unfiltered; this is an act of acknowledgment and release.
2
Forming Intentions: Focusing on the Fire
Be intentional about what you want to release. Focus on how it has made you feel, and be aware of the pressure it has built inside of you.
3
Release: Burning the Fire
Release your energy in a way you feel suitable. Let the energy disperse into the world and transform into something beautiful. Bask in the cathartic liberation.
4
Transformation: Fire to Ashes to Growth
Leave behind the old and walk away renewed. This has nourished the earth as much as it has nourished you.
