creating when it's not easy

layers of paints, tissues, inks, drawings, paper, gold leaf

lately i am marveling at white ink on gold

for me there will always be threads

Today I realized that when big stuff in life happens most of the time my escape is creating. Once in a very great while I freeze. I simply do not want to create or I try and it feels scattered. My life lately has been full of real stuff that is not easy. I practice the daily art of positive thoughtful living. I practice overcoming anxiety that is fresh at times. I follow my own self care habits that bring comfort and then I rest. I sleep. I sleep when it feels too much.

I know that all creatives share in the steps of finding our ways when it's not easy.

Tonight I wanted to share some helpful guides for me in my life. In hopes that I might help just one soul have some new ideas to perhaps practice.

Guide I created for me.
* I journal. I simply write, scribble anything and everything (which is a lot) that is in my head. I feel free to write everything down. No judgements of myself here. This journal is sacred healing life filling stuff.

* I walk. Yes, exercise in any way helps my head. Nature does it for me. I've noticed with the temps being super cold here in Illinois lately that I miss my big long walks. My head missed the space they clear for it. I am sure my little dog Pearl Button misses them too.

* I sleep. I nap. I do not beat myself up for needing more rest. This is a lesson I practice. No telling yourself that you are lesser for needing a rest. GO REST.

* I listen to music. Music that matches my mood. Almost always a song or two can take me out of my head space, if even for a little while.

* I practice not thinking too far into the future. This one is tricky. This one takes a bunch of practice.
I believe we only have this moment for sure. Any given moment can change your life. In big magical soul flipping ways.

I am practicing my life in a thoughtful way. I love then I love more. First of all loving me the very most I know how.