Creativity, Self Care, and You

Did you know that you are an artist and you express your personal creativity every day? Even more importantly, did you know that if you truly focused on that creativity, you could have a healthier, happier, and more productive life? It's true!

Perhaps I'd better begin by explaining what I mean by the term "creativity". I believe that women are creative every waking moment of their lives. You express yourself creatively every time you get dressed, prepare a meal, or write a thank you note. Your creative side is always present and it's up to you to set her free through artistic means. I don't equate creativity to a completed masterpiece; it's about how one expresses themselves and how they feel as they do.

Like life, creativity is a journey, not a destination.

But what do drawing, painting, and sculpting have to do with self care?

First of all, when women take time to rejuvenate themselves and replenish their resources, they are better able to care for important others in their lives. Many women long for days gone by when they could pick up a paint brush and let their mind wander as vibrant colors filled the page. Are you interested in rediscovering a long lost pastime? Or maybe your energy comes from being in a group of like minded women; laughing, sharing stories, and working on projects together.

Another aspect of creativity is the stillness within that we experience when we work on a project. We are often forced to get centered and leave multi-tasking behind, focusing on only one thing. As we concentrate on one project, our mind often stops racing so answers to life's questions present themselves. While focusing on a certain pattern, you may become very clear about whether or not to stay in a job. Quite often, women are so caught up in responding to crises that they can't make affirming decisions, or live purposefully and authentically. Slowing down through creative endeavors helps us to re-identify what is important.

Finally, creative expression enables us to uncover our thoughts, dreams, and feelings. You may be unable to identify a vacation destination until you sketch a picture of a rocky coastline and know that it's exactly where you long to go. You might not be able to name an unsettling feeling until you draw your anger or sadness on paper. Creativity is a reflection of your unique perspective on life. Accessing your creativity allows you to make sense of your values, your circumstances, even the world.

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Jennifer Snyder is the author of a self discovery workbook, The Time of Your Life: A Creative Sourcebook for Women. The Sourcebook can be ordered at [http://www.timeofyourlifeafterdivorce.com]