Can Creativity Bring You Happiness? Yes! Here's How [WRITING YOGA® PROMPT #2015]

Think of something you love to do. Do you consider it "creative." Cooking is creative. Travel is creative. Planning a party is creative. Pretty much everything you do in life requires you to problem solve and yes, that is creative! If you have a headache thinking about problems to solve, it's not as bad as you think. 

When we are engaged in something we love, we can find joy in the struggle. Simply thinking about building a sandcastle, doodling in a notebook, or cooking while adding a dash of this and that, can bring a smile to your face. 

Many people have told me, "I am just not creative."  And I might remind them of an interesting meal they cooked or how fabulously they accessorized an outfit. Ordinary actions can be creative too. Take time this week to notice. 

WRITING YOGA® PROMPT #2015: Creativity as a Path to Happiness 

When you are in a creative zone, you can experience a multitude of emotions. Writing in a journal can help you recognize when you feel amazing and when you don't. You can discover what brings you joy or when you are doing an activity because it's someone else's idea of how you should be spending your time. The more you can carve out time for yourself to be creative, the more joy will find it's way into your work and life. Try these activities together or separately throughout the week to bring creativity and happiness into your world. 

LUMI SIT:  Creativity and Your Luminous Mind 

This week's Lumi Sit is a visualization exercise to help you relax into a creative zone. Find a comfortable place to sit. Plan on carving out 5-10 minutes where you will not be interrupted. Close your eyes. Breathe slowly, calmly and deeply.  After several breaths bring a picture to your mind of something creative and fun. It doesn't matter what it is. Don't judge or make comments to yourself. Sit with the sensations and images of this activity. Notice how you feel. Take note of these images and sensations in your journal. 

LUMI WRITE: What Brings You Joy? 

Writing about the people and things we love to do not only feels good, but it is a creative act in itself! In my workshops, people have often been surprised by how words flow so easily after they have had time to sit quietly. In your journal list all the activities that bring you happiness. Don't read along the way! When you are done, circle the activity that makes you feel the most joyful. Spend 5-10 minutes writing all the reasons why. 

LUMI MOVE:  Creative Planks 

Plank poses remind us that something very challenging can also be creative and fun!  You can modify this by dropping the bottom knee to the floor and/or coming down to your forearm. If you are not feeling well or have other mobility restrictions, just lean into a wall and hold it! Switch sides. 

Find some playfulness in this pose by 1) raising up one leg 2) alternating sides a few times 3) dipping your hips down to the floor. Let your creativity flow!  

As you move through your week, try these exercises at different times of day and in different places. Where do you feel the most creative? Take notice and drop me a note if it brings about any exciting insights!

Thank you for sharing your creativity with me. See you next week! - Stef 

Looking to create a calmer, more compassionate & creative life at home or in your school or office?  Book a free consultation to learn more about workplace retreats and professional development. 

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 For more activities and resources, please go to www.WritingYoga.com.