Mindful Art Journaling: 5 Creative Prompts for Self-Care and Creative Expression

how MINDFUL ART JOURNALING helps you practice self compassion

Combining mindfulness and really simple art practices is a beautiful way to support your self-care and be kinder to yourself. This easy approach to art making helps honor our creative process without judgment, comparison, or pressure to be perfect.

Over the years, I’ve heard so many students say things like:

• “I’m not creative.”

• “I can’t even draw a stick figure.”

• “I don’t have the right supplies.”

Here’s what I truly believe:

We are all creative. We are all worthy. And we each have our own rhythm, curiosity, and way of expressing. Mindful art journaling is a way of channeling your creativity, while coming from a place of compassion.

To help you create with more ease and joy, here are five mindful art journaling prompts.

Mindful Creativity: Letting Go of Judgment

Imagine if there were no such thing as “bad” art. What if your creative practice, or simple art journal, were a space where you could express yourself creatively without pressure or perfectionism? That’s the heart of mindful art; a practice grounded in nonjudgmental awareness and self-compassion.

When we create mindfully, we follow our inner guidance one mark at a time. We breathe, notice, and allow. Art becomes less about the outcome and more about the experience. Isn’t that freeing?

This process reminds us that creative self-care is not just about what we make. It’s about how we treat ourselves along the way.

mindful art journaling: creating without judgment or pressure

One of the greatest benefits of mindful art is the return to play. Think of how freely children create; scribbling with crayons, mixing colors with their fingers, giggling through the process. There’s no hesitation or Inner Critic. Just joyful exploration.

Mindful art journaling invites us to reclaim that wonder. We get to show up with curiosity and compassion, noticing the experience without labeling it good or bad. This creates a safe space for us to play and make art.

The Power of Play in Creative Mindfulness

Play is essential to creativity. When we give ourselves permission to explore without pressure, we’re more likely to:

• Try new materials

• Experiment with unfamiliar techniques

• Follow intuitive ideas

This kind of openness leads to meaningful creative breakthroughs. Play supports resilience. It reminds us that art isn’t something we have to "get right.” It’s something we’re allowed to enjoy.

5 Easy Mindful Art Journaling Prompts

Here are five simple but powerful journaling prompts to guide your mindful art practice. These can be used in your art journal, sketchbook, or any creative space that feels right to you:

1. What positive thoughts or feelings do I have about my art-making?

2. What encouraging words can I write about my art?

3. What have I most enjoyed about creating in the past, such as a color, art material, method, or mark?

4. What am I most curious to try next in my art?

5. How can I explore this curiosity for just five minutes, with full permission and kindness toward myself?

Let these prompts open the door to reflection and discovery. There are no right or wrong answers. Just honest, gentle observation and a willingness to show up.

Why Mindful Art Matters for self-care

In our busy, often overwhelming world, mindful art offers a much-needed pause. It's a way to reconnect with your breath, your body, and your truth.

The benefits of mindful art I’ve noticed most for myself, include:

• Reduced stress

• Improved mood and focus

• A stronger connection to self

• More joy and freedom in creative expression

Beyond the science, there’s something deeply human about creating with intention. It helps us process emotions, express what words can’t, and feel seen, by ourselves and others.

This is why I’m passionate about teaching and sharing mindful art practices. They go beyond technique. They support you in creating a life that feels more aligned and full of meaning.

Mindful Art as a Tool for Transformation

When we engage in mindful art, we aren’t just filling a page. We’re strengthening our relationship with ourselves. Each brushstroke or scribble becomes a moment of creative self-care. Over time, these small moments can transform how we meet challenges, navigate emotions, and show up in the world.

Sometimes, words aren’t enough. That’s where art journaling shines. It gives voice to our feelings and stories in ways that feel intuitive and safe. Through the process, we gain insight, clarity, and compassion.

Join the Mindful Art Community

If this approach to creativity resonates with you, I invite you to explore more with us at Mindful Creative Muse. Whether you're looking for gentle video practices, online workshops, or teacher training in mindful art techniques, there’s a place here for you.

You don’t need fancy supplies or years of experience. Just curiosity, a bit of time, and a willingness to meet yourself with kindness.

Download your Free Mindful Art Workbook Here today to get started, and subscribe to receive weekly inspirational emails and tips.

I’m excited to support and celebrate your mindful creative journey; one mindful moment, one colorful page at a time.

Why Mindful Art & Meditation Are Needed (And How to Teach Them)

Mindful Art and Meditation: Your Tools for Staying Grounded in a Busy World

Scattered thoughts. Racing mind.
Another to-do list. Another deadline.
Your shoulders ache. Your breath feels shallow.
You sit down to rest, but your body stays alert.
Your creativity feels quiet.
Your spark feels dim.
You long for something more, but you can’t quite name it.

Have you ever felt pulled in too many directions, like your energy is leaking out before your day even begins?

Maybe you used to have time for yourself, but now it’s buried under obligations and noise. Maybe you have moments of rest, followed by stretches of exhaustion. Maybe your heart is whispering for space. For stillness. For a different rhythm.

In today’s fast-moving, hyper-connected world, it can be hard to make time for your self-care. With constant notifications, responsibilities, and the pressure to be “on” all the time, it is easy to lose touch with what you need.

But here’s what I’ve learned: Stillness is not the absence of movement. Stillness is a return. A remembering. Stillness is where your creativity, clarity, and purpose live. It is where your real voice begins to speak.

For me, mindful art, meditation, and yoga became lifelines. Guiding lights in the darkest moments of my life. When words failed me, art held me. When I felt overwhelmed, breath brought me back. These weren’t just techniques. They were tools of survival, healing, and transformation.

Each time I picked up a brush, sat in stillness, or moved with intention, I was coming back to myself. I was listening. I was letting go.

And now, it brings me so much joy to offer these tools to others. Because I know I’m not alone, and neither are you.

If you are reading this, perhaps you too are craving that deeper connection. A practice that feels nourishing and sustainable. A path that invites both softness and strength. A way to hold space for others while also holding space for yourself.

Whether you are a yoga teacher wanting to weave creativity into your classes, a wellness practitioner looking to expand your offerings, or a creative soul simply seeking more purpose and presence, the Mindful Art and Meditation Teacher Training is here for you.

This training was created from years of experience, personal practice, and heartfelt teachings with people just like you. People longing to reconnect. People ready to step into leadership rooted in compassion and calm.

This is not just another training.
It is an invitation back to your core.
To create, to feel, to lead, and to live from a place of true alignment.

Let’s begin, together.

What Is the Mindful Art and Meditation Teacher Training?

The Mindful Art and Meditation Teacher Training is an internationally accredited, flexible online Certification Program designed to help you deepen your practice while gaining the skills, confidence, and structure to facilitate powerful experiences for others.

This program is not just a Certification. It is a journey of coming home to yourself, reconnecting with your creativity, and learning how to share meaningful, soul-aligned offerings that bring healing and peace to your community.

Whether you are teaching yoga, hosting wellness retreats, supporting others in one-on-one therapeutic sessions, or simply expanding your personal toolbox, this training will meet you where you are and support where you are going.

Why Mindful Art and Meditation Are Needed More Than Ever

We live in a world overflowing with stimulation, noise, and constant demands. Screens glow late into the night. Notifications buzz all day. News cycles spin faster than we can process. The result? Many of us walk through life feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply disconnected from ourselves. It is no wonder that burnout, stress, and fatigue have become so common.

In the midst of all this chaos, mindful art and meditation offer a deeply nourishing and healing path back to our inner truth. They are not flashy trends or quick fixes. They are steady, grounding practices that invite us to make more space for ourselves, breathe, and listen to what is happening inside. They help us soften into the moment, even when life feels hard.

The beauty of these practices is that they do not require artistic or meditation skills. You do not need to be a trained painter, a seasoned meditator, or a yoga expert. What they ask of you is presence. Curiosity. A willingness to pause. A desire to be honest with yourself. And most importantly, a commitment to treat yourself with compassion.

In my years of guiding and teaching mindful art and meditation around the world, I have witnessed extraordinary stories. I remember a school counselor in India who introduced collage and color to help children name and process grief. I think of a trauma-informed yoga teacher in Brazil who used gentle watercolor and breath to create sacred space for emotional release. I am deeply moved by a grandmother in Canada who had not made art in over forty years but found a new rhythm through creative journaling, giving herself permission to take up space on the page and in her life.

And in a world that so often tells us to hustle, produce, and push through, choosing to make space and create is a radical, life-affirming act.

What Makes This Training Unique?

The Mindful Art & Meditation Teacher Training is a comprehensive, heart-centered program designed to meet the needs of modern creatives and facilitators. Here is what makes it truly special:

A Holistic Approach

You will learn how to integrate mindfulness, meditation, and expressive art into your personal practice and your work with others. This creates a more balanced and whole-person experience.

A Library of Exclusive Activities

You will gain access to unique, time-tested activities I have developed over 20 years of practice. These are not recycled techniques, you will learn deeply nourishing tools - many that you will not find anywhere else.

International Recognition

This is the only online training of its kind accredited by both the International Mindfulness and Meditation Alliance (IMMA) and the Mindful Art Alliance (MAA). That means you are receiving a globally respected certification that supports your credibility and growth.

Practical Support for Facilitators

You will learn how to structure, market, and launch your own workshops, retreats, or programs with confidence and authenticity. This training includes the trauma-informed, 8-step Facilitator Framework so you can create offerings that feel aligned, spacious, and sustainable.

A Flexible, Go-at-Your-Own-Pace Program for Busy Creatives

One of the things my students often tell me is how much they value the flexibility of this training. That was a core part of my intention from the very beginning. When I created the Mindful Art & Meditation Teacher Training, I designed it to meet you where you are. The content is divided into small, digestible modules that you can complete on your own time. Whether you have thirty minutes here and there or an entire weekend to dive in, the training adapts to your rhythm, not the other way around.

When you enroll, you also have the option of including 3 months of group coaching for accountability, support, and community. You can ask questions and receive direct guidance from me. If you cannot attend live, you will have access to the replays so you can watch at your own pace and stay supported throughout your journey.

This training is offered entirely online, which means you can join from anywhere in the world. Whether you are curled up on your couch with a cup of tea, sitting in your studio, or tuning in from a quiet retreat in nature, you are welcome here.

My goal in designing this training was to make it both deeply transformative, simple, and accessible. I wanted you to be able to come home to yourself, deepen your creative and mindful practices, and feel confident sharing them with others in your own authentic way. It is an offering from my heart to yours.

Bonuses & Savings for a Limited Time

As a special gift for the MVP community, you can Save $200 when you sign up now and receive access to exclusive bonuses, including:

• 3 Months of Group Coaching Calls for guidance, support, and accountability

• Bonus Course: Create, Market, and Launch Your Unique Offering
  
  These resources are designed to give you everything you need to start sharing your unique voice and gifts with the world, confidently, creatively, and sustainably.

A Global Community of Mindful Art & meditation teacher Alumni

Nearly 400 Teacher Trainee graduates from around the world have completed this training and gone on to create incredible offerings, from mindfulness-based art therapy programs, to yoga and creativity retreats, to school-based art wellness sessions.

Their stories continue to inspire me, and they are a beautiful reminder that we are never alone on this journey. When we say yes to this work, we become part of something much larger, a shared intention to bring more healing, peace, and presence into the world.

Will You Answer the Call?

If you feel that gentle tug in your heart, that quiet inner voice whispering “this is made for you,” I want you to know that you are not alone. I have felt that whisper, too. It is the kind of whisper that carries truth, the kind that nudges you toward something deeper. If you are reading this, perhaps that voice has already been guiding you here.

Whether you are yearning to teach and guide others or simply looking to deepen your own creative and spiritual practice, I invite you to take that first step. Even if you are unsure where the path will lead, even if it feels tender or uncertain, the act of saying yes to yourself is powerful. That single step has the potential to change everything.

This training is here for you if you long to reconnect with your center. It is here if you crave tools that help you stay grounded and inspired in a world that often pulls you in many directions. It is here if you want to lead from a place of authenticity and heart. And it is here even if you are just beginning, or returning to your creativity after time away.

You do not need to have it all figured out. You just need the willingness to begin.

Let this be the year you answer that call. Let this be the season you come home to yourself, create from your center, and discover the power of mindful art as a practice for healing, clarity, and connection.

Together, we will explore what it means to live and share from a place of truth, presence, and creative flow. And along the way, you will be supported by a warm, international community that believes in this work as deeply as you do.

Your journey matters. Your voice matters. Your creativity has the power to ripple out and touch lives.

I would be honored to walk this path with you.

Clear the Clutter, Unleash Your Creativity: 6 Steps to Designing Your Ideal Mindful Art Studio at Home

Hello, creative friend! Life can be busy and overwhelming at times. Having a dedicated space for creative art making and journaling can be so supportive for your self-care. Want a space where you can relax, destress, and tap into your creativity?

Here are 6 Steps to Make an Art Studio at Home:

Step 1: Find Your Sweet Spot

Find the perfect spot for your mindful art studio. Look around your home for a space that makes your heart sing. It could be a spare room, a cozy corner in your bedroom, a little nook in your living room, or even a portable art studio satchel you can pull out and use on any table in your home. If it’s possible (and sometimes it isn’t), consider the lighting and privacy of the area. Remember, it's not about the size of the space, but the intention and positive vibes you bring to it.

Step 2: Decluttering

Okay, let's tackle the clutter monster first. Get ready to declutter your space and create a clean slate for your creative adventures. Take a deep breath and start sorting through your art supplies. Keep only the essentials that truly speak to your creative soul. Say goodbye to the materials that no longer inspire you. Trust me, clearing out that unnecessary stuff will not only create physical space but also give your mind some breathing room.

Step 3: Organize Like a Pro

Let's face it, a cluttered space can stifle creativity. So, let's get organized! Invest in some storage solutions that fit your space and artistic needs. Clear containers, shelves, and drawers will be your best friends. Categorize your art supplies and label everything to make your life easier. When you have a tidy and organized space, you'll be able to find what you need in a snap, unleashing your creative flow.

Step 4: Surround Yourself with Inspiration

Fill your art studio with things that inspire you. Hang up artworks or quotes that speak to your soul, or create a vision board filled with images that spark your imagination. Display meaningful objects or mementos that bring you joy. Consider adding a small altar or a cozy meditation corner. Surrounding yourself with beauty to inspire your own creative explorations.

Step 5: Create a Zen Zone

How would it feel to have your own creative nook or art studio at home (where you can feeling a sense of calm and inspiration)? Sounds amazing, right? You can create a relaxing space by choosing soothing colors (think soft blues, greens, or earthy tones that transport you to a tranquil oasis). Add elements of nature like plants to bring a touch of grounding energy, and perhaps add some cozy lighting.

Step 6: Embrace Mindfulness

Let's infuse some mindfulness into your creative practice. Before diving into art making, take a moment to center yourself. Breathe deeply, meditate, or express gratitude for the gift of creativity. Embrace the process of making art as a form of meditation, a way to connect with your inner self and explore the depths of your imagination. Notice each brushstroke, each pencil mark, and let your creativity flow.

Your art home studio and mindful creative sanctuary is ready for you!

Remember, this is YOUR creative journey. Personalize your space, and make it a reflection of your unique artistic voice. In this space, may you find solace, inspiration, and endless opportunities to create art that truly resonates with your inner self. Where you can let your imagination be free, experiment, try new practices and media, and express yourself creatively.

When life gets busy, may you make it a priority to spend time in your mindful art studio, corner, or portable art supplies. Set aside moments to create, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. Use this space or time to decompress, unwind, and reconnect with yourself. Let your creative practice be your refuge, a place where you can let go of stress and immerse yourself in the therapeutic power of art.

mindful art is not about the end result. It's about the process, the act of creating itself.

For Inspiration…

Watch these 5 minute Mindful Art Activities HERE!

Download your free Mindful Art WorkboOK HERE!

Embrace imperfections, experiment fearlessly, and let your intuition guide you. Allow your art to be a reflection of your emotions, your experiences, and your unique perspective on the world.

So, my creative friend, it's time to take that leap. Clear the clutter, design your mindful art studio, and let the magic unfold. Connect with your Creative Muse, and allow this creative space to nourish your soul. In the words of Vincent van Gogh, "I dream my painting and I paint my dream." May your dreams come to life within your creative space and mindful art studio.

For more inspiration, read these articles on Creative Decluttering for your Home Art Studio:

• How to Declutter Your Home: 10 Creative Decluttering Tips

• Your DIY Guide to Designing a Home Art Studio

Now…your art is waiting to be born, and your art studio, corner, or journal is the sacred space where it will flourish. May it be a place of inspiration, growth, and self-discovery. Embrace the journey and trust the process.

Do you have anything you LOVE in your art studio or space? Any tips you found helpful that you want to comment and share with others? Any questions you have or things you’re struggling with as you set up your space? p.s. I can't wait to hear about and see the creative work you create in your mindful art studio. Feel free to comment here and/or tag me on social media: @mindfulcreativemuse :) Happy creating, my friend!

Learn more about Mindful Art online with our:
Mindful Art Workshops
Mindful Art Teacher Training

The Secret to Daily Creativity: A Simple Mindful Art Studio for Busy People

Do you sometimes feel too busy to make art or practice self-care?

Do you often feel creatively blocked, unable to tap into your artistic side?

If so, you're not alone. Many people lead busy lives and struggle to find the time and space to unleash their creativity. But what if I told you that the secret to unlocking your daily creativity lies in something as simple as having a mindful art studio (or dedicated art journal)?

If you're a busy person struggling to find time for your creativity, you may think that setting up a mindful art studio is out of reach. You might be thinking that you don't have the space or the time to create a dedicated area for your art. But the truth is, you don't need a large space or a lot of time to set up a simple and effective mindful art studio.

In fact, the beauty of a mindful art studio is that it can be as simple or as elaborate as you want it to be. You don't need fancy equipment or a lot of space to get started. All you need is a small corner of your home and a few basic art supplies. The key is to keep it simple and uncluttered, so you can focus on your art without distractions.

7 Tips to Create a Simple Mindful Art Studio at Home (for Busy People):

1. Find a small corner: Keep it small and simple: You don't need a large space to create a mindful art studio. Look for a small corner in your home that you can dedicate to your art. It could be a spare room, a corner of your living room, or even a closet. The key is to keep it simple and uncluttered, so you can focus on your art without distractions. It’s important to have a space where you can work without interruptions. If you don’t have a room or corner, you can also dedicate an art journal, with a few simple drawing supplies, that is always available to you.

2. Clear the clutter: Clear the space of any unnecessary items. This will make it easier to focus on your art and reduce distractions. An artist friend of mine recently said, “we need a space we can make mistakes in,” and I couldn't agree more. It can be a fine line between having your art space be too immaculate and perfect that you feel hesitant to make a mess and play or having a space that feels too overwhelming and chaotic that blocks you from even beginning (because you’d have to spend an hour cleaning first!).

3. Organize your supplies: Keep your art supplies in labeled containers or drawers, so you can find what you need quickly. This will save you time and reduce stress. For an extra bonus, I like playing with “Creative Limitations,” where you choose to play with only a few art supplies at a time. It’s amazing how this can free up your creative ideas and brainstorming while making art!

4. Personalize your space: Make the space your own by decorating it with things that inspire you. This could be anything from photographs to artwork to plants. 

5. Create a routine: A daily, or consistent, routine is essential for a mindful art studio. Set aside a specific time each day or week to work on your art, and stick to it. This will help you stay focused and motivated.

6. Let go of perfectionism: Remember, the goal of a mindful art studio is to let go of perfectionism and judgment. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and experiment with different techniques.

7. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the key to unlocking your daily creativity. Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and allow your mind to be quiet. This will help you stay present and focused while you create.

Creating a mindful art studio doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a space where you can let go, focus on the present moment, and tap into your creativity. By following these simple steps, you can set up a dedicated space where you can explore your artistic side, free from distractions and interruptions.

The beauty is you don’t have to create alone.

Once you have your dedicated mindful art studio or journal set up, you can:

❥ Watch: Mindful Art Videos
❥ Download: Free Mindful Art Workbook

Having a dedicated space for your creative practice is essential for your self-care. It's a place where you can escape the stress and demands of everyday life, and focus on your own needs and wants. It's a space where you can let go of perfectionism, judgment, and stress and instead, focus on the present moment. It's a sanctuary where you can explore your artistic side and let your creativity flourish.

But it's not just about having the space, it's also about consistent practice.

Setting aside time each day to work on your art, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on your well-being. It allows you to disconnect from the world and focus on yourself. It's a form of self-care that nourishes not just your body but also your mind and soul. It's a way to recharge, refresh, and connect with yourself.

Consistently practicing your art, whether it's drawing, painting, sculpting, writing, or anything else, allows you to tap into your inner creativity. It's a way to express yourself and explore your thoughts and feelings. It's a way to nurture your soul and find joy, peace, and happiness.

We can create art in as little as 5 minutes.

So many creatives feel blocked or don’t create, because they feel like they “don’t have the time” or have too high of expectations for what they want to make. Both of these thoughts can block the creative process. Instead, you can try creating for only 5 minutes at a time. Set a timer and intention. Dip your toes into the creative process. It’s a great way to gain momentum and bypass our Inner Critic who can sometimes block us from even beginning.

I created an entire 5-day 5-minute Art Challenge a couple of years ago. You can still follow along and download this free Mindful Mandala Art Challenge Workbook (that includes a whole section on creating your own art space, mindful art prompts, and videos to inspire your practice at home).

Setting up a simple mindful art studio and committing to a consistent practice is a simple yet powerful self-care tool that can help you to find balance, and to flourish both creatively and personally. It's an investment in yourself, and you deserve it. Remember, the goal of a mindful art studio is to let go of perfectionism and judgment. Give yourself permission to experiment with different techniques and make mistakes. And above all, have fun and enjoy the process!

Learn More about Mindful Art:

Mindful Art YouTube Videos
Free Mindful Art Workbook
Free Mindful Mandala Art Challenge Workbook
Mindful Art Workshops
Mindful Art Teacher Training

Let’s Stay Connected!

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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.

LET’S STAY CONNECTED!

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Create a Self-Care Inventory List including 20 Things You Love

Creative Self-Care Inventory

In my experience, most of us know what lights us up, what nurtures us, what makes us feel alive, and what self-care means for us as an individual. I’ve found it’s generally more difficult to give ourselves permission (or find the time, or prioritize ourselves, etc) to live a daily creative self-care practice! Daily habits and routines can also take time to cultivate and change.

With current social distancing in place due to COVID-19, we may also need to adjust how we approach our daily self care. This may mean changing some of the activities we consider for self-care, and it may also mean doing less and being more. This is a time to be gentle and compassionate with ourselves. <3

Below is a simple Writing Exercise to clarify your Creative Self Care needs:

Photo by Jess Bailey

creative self-care journaling prompts:

• Create a list of 10 to 20 self care activities that feel nurturing and restoring for YOU (that would be possible for you to do in this moment)

• Place a star next to your favorites (2 or 3)

• Underline any self care practices you've completed in the last 30 days

• Circle any you've completed in the last week (or for an extra challenge today!)

Are you surprised by how little or how many self-care practices you do daily, weekly, monthly? What about your favorites self-care activities? Did you struggle to write what self-care feels like for you?

I notice this list (like our breath) is constantly ebbing and flowing, and that's okay! Also, sometimes our self-care activities are possible, or not, by things outside of our control. Social distancing, as a result of Coronavirus, is a perfect example of this.

If you have a lot of amazing self-care activities on your list, but it's been a while since you've explored them, choose two or three items you can do. What would you need to possibly change to make them a reality? What self care item(s) on your list can you do now (and possibly save some others for another time)?

For more Mindful Art Activities and Creative Self Care inspiration, sign up for my Mindful Creative Muse Newsletter here and check back on the blog.

p.s. I’d LOVE to hear some of your favorite creative self care activities. Please comment so we can connect. :)

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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