Finding calmness through creativity.
I am: A mumma to two young boys A recovering art perfectionist A creative art facilitator A woman who understands the power behind her monthly cycle An introvert and Highly Sensitive Person A qualified Early Childhood teacher I like: To explore the ‘woo woo’ side of things, as long as there are some smatterings of science in there too… Veggies more than cake Artsy fartsy foreign films To not take life too seriously...if I can help it! Working with my monthly cycle Playing with art, paint and pencils |
Once upon a time I liked to draw in my spare time. I loved the calmness of it, the thrill of it, the positive feedback I got when it looked good. Creating was part of my soul. Then I got busy with life, with university, with a boyfriend, and slowly I stopped drawing just 'for the sake of it'. A few years later I had a baby. It was bloody hard work....and soon I felt like I had lost a big part of myself in the demanding routines and care needed for that teeny human. Once sleep came back (a little) I looked around and wondered where the heck I had gone. I couldn't remember who I was other than 'mum' and it scared me. I began to have a desperate need to create again. I needed that core identity that was now buried deep. Creating had to happen...but the how was now pretty darn tricky. I also realised I needed ways to find a little more 'slow' and calm in my life, especially when bubba no. 2 entered the scene, in a rather scary and touch and go way. Luckily I stumbled upon something called 'expressive arts' and realised THIS was the answer. Making art that does not need to be perfect, that does not need an audience, that is focused on the process rather than the product. It gave me the permission just to play, and enjoy the calm that it brings. Then when my cycle came back (and I knew it would be with me for a good while now that there would be no more children) I realised I needed to make friends with it now, more than ever. Learning that my down days are just that, days and a season that will pass, helps me to balance my energy that is constantly being consumed by little peoples needs. I can plan my energy outputs much better with this understanding. I am happier in my own skin. |