If you're anything like me, this never ending winter has the potential to zap all energy and creativity. (Not to mention making you incredibly grumpy.) I've found a few things that have helped to lift me out of my creative rut this winter, and I thought that I would share them with you.
- Get out of the house. I know it can be hard when the roads are bad, but here are a few activites you can join that are close to us. The Vernon Library and The Shiawassee District Library always have some sort of class or book club, including activities for the kids. Ladies Craft Night at First Congregational Church of Durand. You might get a creative spark from someone else.
- When you're feeling particularly stressed, take a few deep, full breaths. Very few people take a complete full breath during their day. Clearing your head for just a few seconds can set your brain in motion.
- Ask for a hug. It seems simple and silly, but it works. My family has been trained. Now all I have to say is "Mommy's feeling crabby" and my boys run with open arms.
- Pray. Sometimes I feel like when I talk about my troubles and stresses with God, he gives me an outlet for them. An idea for a piece of work that will convey my emotion and my feelings to others.
- Get some excercise. The endorphins your body releases give you a feeling of well being. For me, it helps give my brain and body more energy. My favorite exercise is yoga class. It includes some meditation to help clear my mind, and the classes are usually warm which makes me thankful for the cold air when I go outside. I love Samadhi Yoga Center, and I've heard great things about All about U Fitness as well.
- Read a book. I've read so many books this winter. I love books that create a beautiful picture in my mind. Then I can challenge myself to recreate it with my artwork. It also takes your mind away from the cold and snow. Curling up under a warm blanket with a book and a cup of hot tea is fantastic in the winter. A few of my favorites are The Goldfinch, Mariana,Pride and Prejudice, The Night Circus and The Day The Falls Stood Still. I'm dying to read the Divergent series as well.
- Volunteer Your Time. There are countless organizations that need your help over the winter. You will foget your own burdens while working to lighten someone else's.
- Do a mindless task. Another silly one but it works. After a while doing a task my brain doesn't really have to focus on it starts to drift on its own. My files are very organized, my oven is very clean, and my floors are beautifully swept this winter.