10 Ways to Cultivate Self-Love through Art and Mindfulness

While it can be challenging to love ourselves in a world that often tells us we’re not enough, I believe we all deserve to feel self-love (and it’s something we can practice!). There are many ways to practice self-love and build self-compassion. One way is through the creative process, and in this article, we'll explore 10 ways that art and mindfulness can help us to cultivate self-love and build self-compassion.

10 Ways Art and Mindfulness can help:

1. Mindful Art can be a powerful tool for self-expression and self-discovery. When we create mindful art, we have the opportunity to explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and non-judgmental space. By allowing ourselves the freedom to express ourselves through art, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and what is important to us. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle with negative self-talk or low self-esteem.

2. Mindful Art can help us to learn to forgive ourselves. One of the biggest barriers to self-love is the tendency to be overly critical of ourselves. We all make mistakes and have flaws, and it's important to learn to forgive ourselves for these imperfections. By creating art along with mindfulness, we can practice self-forgiveness and learn to let go of the need to be perfect.

3. Mindful Art can be a powerful way to practice gratitude. When we focus on the things we are grateful for (especially about ourselves), it can become easier in time to accept and love different parts of ourselves. Gratitude practices have been linked with higher self-esteem and overall well-being.

4. Mindful Art can help us to develop self-compassion. When we create art, we have the opportunity to be kind and compassionate to ourselves, even when we are struggling or making perceived mistakes. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle with negative self-talk, self-doubt, or a strong Inner Critic when making art. By practicing self-compassion and non-judgmental mindfulness through art, we can notice our negative thoughts and practice being more accepting of ourselves and our creative impulses.

5. Mindful Art can be a form of self-care. When we take time to create art, we are taking care of ourselves and nourishing our minds, bodies, and spirits. By setting aside dedicated time for art-making, we can recharge our batteries and feel more balanced and grounded.

6. Mindful Art can help us to connect with our inner child. When we create art, we have the opportunity to tap into our inner child and allow ourselves to be playful and spontaneous. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle with perfectionism. By embracing our inner child through art, we can learn to have more fun, be playful, and live in the present moment.

7. Mindful Art can help us to cope with difficult emotions. Many people have spoken about how creating mindful art helps them to process and express their emotions in a healthy way. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. Mindfulness, art, and self-care practices can be a healthy way for some people to cope with difficult emotions.

8. Mindful Art can be a form of meditation. Similar to focusing on our breath, we can focus on the marks we’re making on the page. So many artists and creatives speak of dropping into a “flow state” while creating and how they feel more present and focused. Meditation and art can sometimes help people feel more grounded, peaceful, and focused.

9. Mindful Art can help us to connect with others. When we create art, we have the opportunity to share our creations with others and to connect with them on a deeper level. By sharing our art with others, we can build meaningful connections and find support and encouragement.

10. Mindful Art can help us to see ourselves in a new light. When we create art, we have the opportunity to see ourselves in a new way and to discover new aspects of ourselves that we may have previously been unaware of. By exploring our creativity through art, we can learn to see ourselves in a more positive and accepting way.

Learn More about Mindful Art:

Watch: Mindful Art Videos
Download: Free Mindful Art Workbook
Learn more: Mindful Art Teacher Training and Mindful Art Workshops

Art and mindfulness can be powerful tools for cultivating self-love and building self-compassion. By taking the time to create art and to be present with ourselves, we can learn to love ourselves more fully and to live more authentically and joyfully. So why not give it a try and see how art and mindfulness can transform your life? You might just be surprised at the positive impact that these practices can have.

Remember to be kind and compassionate to yourself as you explore these practices. With time, patience, and practice, you may notice it’s easier to offer love and compassion to yourself.

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From Burnout to Bliss: How Mindfulness and Art Can Help You Find Work-Life Balance

Are you feeling burnt out and overwhelmed?

Are you struggling to find balance in your work and personal life?

It's a common struggle and one that can eventually wreak havoc on our mental and physical well-being. But there is hope! Mindfulness and art are simple, lovely ways to practice self-care and they can help you feel more centered, focused, and fulfilled. First, let's talk about mindfulness. Many of us have heard of mindfulness, but what exactly is it? Simply put, mindfulness is the practice of bringing your full attention to the present moment, without judgment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts and feelings in a non-reactive way and can help you feel more grounded, present, and aware.

There are many ways to practice mindfulnesS,

but one of the most popular is meditation. No, you don't need to sit in meditation for hours (although you certainly can if you want to). Meditation can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths and focusing on your breath. It's a great way to clear your mind and bring your attention to the present moment.

But mindfulness isn't just about sitting in silence. It's also about bringing a sense of awareness and presence to your daily activities. This could be as simple as taking a few deep breaths before starting a task. I like to take a few mindful breaths when walking from room to room, waiting at a stoplight, or checking my emails. You can also pay attention to your surroundings as you go for a walk - noticing all of the different sights, sounds, smells, and sensations without judgment. By bringing your full attention to the present moment, you can reduce stress, improve your focus, and feel more grounded and at ease.

Now let's talk about mindfulness and art.

You may not think of art as a form of self-care, but it can be an incredibly therapeutic and transformative activity. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, engaging in art-making can help you express your emotions, relax, and find a sense of fulfillment.

But art doesn't have to be complicated or require any special skills. It can be as simple as doodling with a pen and paper or coloring in a coloring book. The important thing is to let go of any expectations or judgment and simply enjoy the process. By focusing on the present moment and letting your creativity flow, you can find a sense of relaxation and joy that will help you feel more balanced and centered.

So how do you bring mindfulness and art together?

One way is through "Mindful Art.” This is a practice that combines mindfulness and art-making as a way to promote self-exploration, self-care, and overall well-being. It can be a powerful tool for stress management, self-expression, and personal growth.

You don't have to be an artist to benefit from the transformative power of Mindful Art. You can incorporate mindfulness and art into your daily routine in simple and meaningful ways.

Five Ways to Use Mindfulness and Art for Burnout, Work-Life Balance, and Self-Care:

1. Take a few minutes each day to sit in silence and focus on your breath. Then, grab a pen and paper and let your thoughts and feelings flow onto the page. I like to do this as a daily “Morning Musings” practice, inspired by Julia Cameron’s “Morning Pages,” and can be a fun way to let go of ruminating thoughts before you begin your day. For daily inspiration, download this free Mindful Art Workbook and Calendar (with 30 prompts to inspire your daily art-making - no experience needed).

2. Engage in art-making as a form of self-care. Whether you're painting, drawing, or just doodling, let go of any expectations or judgment and simply enjoy the process. This can be a great way to relax and find a sense of fulfillment. For inspiration, watch these 5-minute Mindful Art Videos.

3. Incorporate art into your daily activities. Whether you're going for a walk or washing the dishes, try to bring a sense of mindfulness and creativity to the task at hand. This can help you find a sense of balance and enjoyment in your daily routine.

4. Make time for hobbies and activities that bring you joy. Whether it's painting, drawing, cooking, or gardening, find an activity that brings you a sense of fulfillment and relaxation. You can also listen to Creativity Podcasts or Books - here are some of my favorites! Incorporating these activities into your weekly routine can help you find a sense of balance and well-being.

5. Seek out and join an online Mindful Art Workshop. These classes are a lovely way to be guided through playing with a variety of mindfulness and art activities - and it can be more fun to share this with others and play when it fits your schedule. One of my favorite ways to start a new mindful art practice, or begin again, is being guided in 30 Days of Mindful Art.

By incorporating mindfulness and art into your daily routine, you can find a sense of balance and well-being that will help you feel more centered, focused, and fulfilled. So next time you're feeling burnt out and overwhelmed, remember that there is hope. By taking a few moments to practice mindfulness and engage in art-making, you can find a sense of balance and joy that will help you move from burnout to bliss.

Remember, mindfulness and art are not a quick fix or a magic cure-all. They are ongoing practices that require time, patience, and commitment. But the benefits are well worth it. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can find a sense of balance, well-being, and fulfillment that will help you thrive in all areas of your life.

p.s. I’m curious - what’s helped you move through burnout? What mindful or creative activities do you like for self-care? By commenting you may inspire someone else! :)

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Meditative Watercolor Doodling to de-stress | Mindful Art Activity for Beginners

Destress at home with this Meditative Watercolor Doodling art journaling exercise. This is one of my recent favorite Mindful Art Activities to de-stress using minimalist art supplies. Enjoy! 💜

I love meditative watercolor doodles using minimalist art supplies for stress relief. I love simple mindful art journaling for so many reasons. These watercolor + doodles are great for beginners and it's fun art to do when your stuck at home. For me, mindful art journaling is a great way to start my morning! :)

DESTRESS AT HOME WITH OUR MINDFUL MANDALAS DOODLING E-COURSE >>> here

This simple and fun E-Course includes Mindful Art Activities, Mandala art, minimalist art tutorial, gratitude affirmations, and journaling prompts for art to do when your stuck at home. I've found combining minimalist art supplies and watercolor art journal ideas are great for beginners or to relax.

MINDFUL MANDALAS E-COURSE Register Here:

LIST OF ART SUPPLIES:
Arches Watercolor Paper Block, 9x12 here
Mungyo Professional Water Colors Set (24 Colors) here
Watercolor Paint Brushes Squirrel Hair Professional 4Pcs here
Micron Ink Pen Set, Ass't 6CT Set here

Mindful Art E-Courses and Trainings Here

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Wheel of Life Exercise | Mindful Art Activity

The Wheel of Life is a lovely mindful writing exercise to creatively and visually see how you’re feeling in different areas of your life. You can do this brief “check in” in a short amount of time, and I like see how things shift and change from week to week. Similar to watching how our breath changes, I enjoy how this writing exercise helps increase my self-awareness.

I describe the process in the Life Balance Wheel for Self-Care this the downloadable Wheel of Life PDF Worksheet below. The worksheet includes additional writing prompts that I’ve found helps to shed light on which life areas may feel out of alignment and how to create simple actionable steps to reclaim your Self-Care.

Access your free, printable Wheel of Life Worksheet with instructions here: http://bit.ly/wheeloflifepdf

I’d love to hear from you! Please share in comments how this exercise is resonating with you, and perhaps any ah-ha’s that surfaced. Also, what other creative tools or activities do you use for your own self care?

Bored at Home? 9 Art and Mindfulness Books to De-Stress

Do you feel bored (or stressed) stuck at home? Many of us are spending more time at home due to the Coronavirus pandemic. If you find yourself with some free time (and want to potentially spark your creativity and de-stress), here are some of the Best Art and Mindfulness Books for self care (in my opinion). :)

Click on the image below for more information about the books, as well as 7 interesting articles about creativity, trauma, and resiliency.

9 Art and Mindfulness Books to Destress:

1. The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

2. Finding Water by Julia Cameron

3. Walking in this World by Julia Cameron

4. Writing Down the Bones by Natalie Goldberg

5. The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp

6. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

7. Make Peace with Your Mind by Mark Coleman

8. Art & Fear by David Bayles and Ted Ormand

Expand Your Creative Horizons: More Inspiring Reads on Art and Mindfulness

In addition to these insightful reads, consider exploring other dimensions of creativity and mindfulness through books like "Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear" by Elizabeth Gilbert. This book explores the mysterious nature of inspiration and offers an empowering perspective on creativity. Gilbert's engaging narrative encourages readers to embrace their curiosity and let go of needless suffering.

Another highly recommended book is "Mindfulness for Creativity" by Dr. Danny Penman. It provides practical exercises that blend mindfulness with creative thinking, helping to sharpen your mind, enhance creativity, and reduce stress. This book is especially useful for those looking to develop a more mindful approach to their artistic endeavors and daily life.

Remember, each book offers a unique doorway into the realms of art and mindfulness. Whether you're an artist seeking inspiration or someone looking to find peace in these turbulent times, these books can be a source of comfort and a catalyst for creative exploration. Share your experiences and thoughts on these books or any others that have touched your life, as we all navigate this journey of creativity and self-care together.

What are your favorite books about Art, Creativity, or Mindfulness?

What books help you destress and feel less anxiety and more creative? Let’s share the love! 💜

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Unlocking Creativity: Mindful Art Activities with Mindful Creative Muse

Welcome, Creative Friends! Today marks an exciting new chapter for our community, including a deeper dive into the world of mindfulness with the vibrant world of expressive arts, art journaling, watercolor painting, and more. Mindful Creative Muse is proud to introduce our latest project: a series of YouTube videos focused on expressive arts, mindfulness, art journaling, watercolor doodles, and more. This unique fusion is designed to unlock your creativity and enhance your well-being, no matter where you are.

Embrace Mindfulness and Creative art

In our fast-paced world, finding moments of peace and creativity can be a challenge. That's where our Mindful Art and Journaling Activities come in. Through our carefully crafted online exercises, you'll discover new ways to connect with yourself and express your emotions. Whether you're a seasoned artist or someone looking to explore your creative side, our art as meditation activities are tailored to suit all levels.

Creative Self-Care On-the-Go

The beauty of mindful art and journaling is that they can be practiced anywhere, making them perfect for those who are always on the move. Our Mindful Art Activities and Online Exercises for adults are not just about creating art; they're about crafting a space for yourself to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate. Whether you're at home, traveling, or in your personal art studio, these practices serve as a gentle reminder to take care of your mind and body.

Join Our mindful art Community on YouTube

Dive deeper into the world of mindful art by checking out Mindful Creative Muse’s new YouTube Channel and subscribing! Here, you'll find a treasure trove of resources to inspire your next mindful art or journaling project. From beginner-friendly tutorials to more advanced techniques, our channel is a space for you to explore the endless possibilities of creativity.

subscribe to our youtube channel

Subscribe to stay updated with our latest videos, and don't hesitate to like and comment with any questions or suggestions. Your feedback is invaluable to us, and we're eager to learn what topics or activities you'd like to see featured.

As we go on this mindful art journey together, I'm reminded of the power of art and mindfulness to transform our lives. The Mindful Art and Journaling Activities we share are more than just exercises; they're a pathway to discovering your inner peace and unlocking your creative potential. So grab your art supplies and join us in creating a mindful, creative life.

Creatively Blocked? 5 Steps to Tap into your Creative Muse:

In 2005, during my first semester at a graduate Studio Arts program in Firenze, Italy, I found myself creatively blocked. I'd paint one small stroke, then stand back and evaluate. I'd make another small, timid stroke and stand back. I was practically begging for permission from some divine force to step in and ALLOW me to actually create. I was stuck. Can you relate? 

Have you ever felt creatively stuck?
does your inner critic limit your creativity?

Maybe you're feeling that now (and that's okay!). Keep reading as this was written especially for you, my creative kindred spirit! ...

I still showed up to my canvas with a paintbrush in hand, because I was in a school program with a schedule and deadlines (or I may have given up for a while). My Inner Critic had taken over, and I had allowed my inner creative voice to be quieted. Squelched. Silenced.  

My professor at the time kept pressuring me to "strike while the iron was hot." I didn't have a good understanding of this concept, so I internalized her statement as shame that I wasn't producing enough work. Enough good work.

Thankfully, I flew home to the US during our holiday break for some much needed rest, relaxation, and connecting with my friends and family who I missed dearly. When I returned to my art studio after my trip, I had found my fire again. I started creating vastly different work than anything I had created before. I switched from oil paints to spray paint. From small canvases to mural-sized loose canvas nailed onto the wall. The materials felt freeing, and so I was free to work.

I was able to create because I had quieted my Inner Critic. I had reconnected to myself and a supportive community. I had given myself time to rest and de-stress. Because I was trying something completely new, I felt inspired and gave myself permission to play and experiment.

If you're struggling with feeling creatively blocked, I hope these 5 Steps to Tap into your Creative Muse serve as a reminder and inspiration for you. 

1. Be Patient with yourself and do simple mindful art exercises:
   I didn't realize that for me my rhythm of creating (and inspiration!) ebbed and flowed. It wasn't static or steady. I was sometimes in a flow state and sometimes I felt stuck. Sometimes my thoughts were brewing and incubating work that would come to fruition minutes, moments, or months later. Capturing my ideas down in a notebook or on my phone was a way of fueling the fire and noticing my desires to create. Exploring simple, fun and quick art exercises also helped free up my creativity. I'll be sharing more simple Mindful Art exercises here soon!

2. Show up and let go of expectations:
   "Strike while the iron is hot" meant to continue to show up and do the work. To not silence the Inner Critic, but be with it. To show up and let go of: the expectations, the judgment, the harsh criticism, and perfectionism. It meant to playfully be curious to the unfolding of mark making and words and images and trusting in the process. What I also learned about showing up, is that once I arrived and was in a good "flow," I often felt better and didn't want to stop creating. When your Inner Critic is beating you up, you're in a heightened state of arousal and it's not possible to be in a creative flow state. I'll be sharing practices to help you Embrace your Inner Critic, calm and sooth feelings of anxiety or worry, be in a Flow state, and let go of expectations.

3. Make time for your unique Creative Self-Care needs:
   For me, I needed a balanced life. I needed a support system and space. I needed to create and share the work, and I needed to create for only me. I was a walking contradiction, and that's beautiful, because humans are complex and so is life. Art is a mirror for all of these complexities, contradictions, frustrations, and joys. While you may have different needs, I think it's so important to dive into and discover what you find supportive. What does Creative Self-Care look and feel like for you? I'll be sharing more tips and suggestions in my blog about this soon!

4. Creativity is Sacred. Trust the Process:
   Art was sacred time for me. Something to be cherished. Something to be grateful for. Something to be celebrated and shared. Something to be discovered. Something that was continually changing as I was continually changing. Something that couldn't 100% be explained or put into words. Sometimes you have to trust the process, and allow what wants to unfold or bubble up to surprise you.

5. Embrace your Inner Critic:
   I am my own worst critic. My inner critic didn't need to be abandoned or quieted - it needed to be heard, held, comforted, supported, and appreciated. It needed to know: "YES I hear you, thank you for having my back, I know you're scared, but I've got this." I'll be sharing some tips and techniques to Uncover your Inner Critic's Voice, how to Embrace your Inner Critic, and how to use simple, mindful self-compassion practices so you can move forward!

That's Creativity for you.
It's simple. Accessible to us all...

We have to be willing to listen to our Creative Muse. To create the space for us to remember and tap into it. To be curious. Most of all, we have to be non-judgmental so we're free to create and play.

I suppose that's why I see Creativity and Mindfulness as always connected, because if you show up to create with a huge inner critic you'll be not only miserable in the process, you'll block the true inner muse and creativity and the moments where we "collaborate with chance" from happening. 

Mindful art activities and self-compassion practices can help see, hear and acknowledge your Inner Critic while nurturing your heart's desires and Creative Muse. I find these expressive art activities so nurturing, and I'm excited to share them so you can step more fully into the beautiful creative being that you are... until next time, Happy Creating! 

3 KEYS FOR CREATIVITY AND FLOW STATES

Do you feel more creative when in a "flow state"?

Do you have an inner critic or voice saying "I'm not creative" or "I'm not good enough"?

Explore 3 key things about creativity and being in a "flow state" below... 

When I was attending graduate art school in 2005, I fell into a bit of a creative slump. One of my Art Professors at the time encouraged me to "strike while the iron is hot."

I remember her telling all of the artists in our graduate art program that we needed to consistently create artwork and produce something every day to ensure our creative juices kept flowing. While I know her intentions were good (and she was speaking from what worked well for her), I found her firm words triggered feelings of shame in me.

My inner child felt like it wasn't good enough. I tried as hard as I could to produce "work"; to churn out amazingly creative pieces and to deeply connect with the "muse" in my life. However, the love affair with my muse was seemingly absent. Quiet. Still. 

My professors words stuck with me for years (especially when I found myself in a similar "dry spell" creatively). Strike while the iron is hot. What iron am I supposed to be striking? Why did it run cold in the first place? I'm a failure as an artist, I thought. I'm not creative, I thought. However, after years of experiencing this cyclical dance of creating, I began to notice:

my creative process came in waves; it ebbed and flowed.

Similar to everything in nature, my creative output appeared to have it's own seasons. When I wasn't doing something creative, my thoughts and creative juices were incubating. It reminds me of trees in the winter. Upon first glance, trees may seem barren and frozen, however beneath the surface they are soaking up nutrients that will help them grow, expand, and flourish when the sun comes out and the timing is right. 

Maybe you've experience similar seasons of creating in your life? Maybe you have the same inner critic and voice saying "I'm not creative" or "I'm not good enough." I believe:

1. Everyone is creative in their own way

2. Everyone has a different process of expressing their creativity

3. Creativity is healing and fundamental to our self-care and well-being

So what does creativity mean to you? How are you creative in your life?

Creativity is defined as "the ability to make new things or think of new ideas." Creativity isn't always equated to artwork, and instead Creativity = Innovation. Process. Ideas. Expression. Thinking of creativity in this way, you may find it easier to recognize ways you think of new ideas, express yourself, or give back to the world. For one person, creativity may look like painting, drawing, writing, collage, photography, or dance; for others, creativity may look like gardening, hiking, working on cars or home repair; and for others it may also look like solving math problems, creating software apps, sharing new ideas at a work meeting, solving a problem in a different way and sharing the results with your peers.

Creativity comes in a variety of shapes and forms, however one thing is common: 
Creativity is often linked to being in a Flow State: an "optimal state of consciousness where we feel our best and perform our best.” Psychology Today wrote an interesting article about the connection between Creativity and Flow states here. When we're expressing ourselves creatively, we are often in a Flow State, and this state feels so effortless that we may not give our efforts enough credit. Flow States enhance our creativity, because we're in an altered state of consciousness. Our breath is deepened. Our focus is precise and clear. Time passes quickly, and it's easy for us to lose ourselves in the moment. 

So how can we enhance our likelihood of being in a Flow State and enhancing our Creativity? I'm glad you asked. There are many ways we can enter into this flow state, and I'll share 5 of my favorite top tips to help you tap into your creative spirit in my next Blog. Be sure to subscribe below!

I hope this has sparked ideas for you regarding what creativity means in your life, and please know if you're in a season of rest that you're exactly where you need to be! If you'd like to tap into your creative spirit, connect in a flow state, and share in a non-judgmental space, I hope you'll join us for one of our upcoming Art and Yoga Workshops or online expressive arts and mindfulness e-courses. 

If you want to be the first to receive our expressive arts inspirations and exercises, art and yoga schedule, self-care tips, and updates through our newsletter and blog, sign-up here:

💜 EXPLORE CREATIVE SELF-CARE AT HOME 💜 ...Be the first to know... get class updates, tips, announcements, and more by joining my newsletter below.

p.s. I'd love to hear when you feel you're in a flow state and how creativity manifests in your life! Please share in the comments! :)