Take a Step Back, Stretch, and Move Forward: How to Grow Creatively [Writing Yoga® Creativity Matrix Prompt #8]
Apr 28, 2025Watching the maple trees grow like weeds in my yard is a perfect metaphor for this week's theme: we need to stretch to grow. Tiny seedlings along my fence are now decorated with large lime colored leaves. Thank goodness, winter is over and new growth can begin.
Nature's lessons fill anthologies of poetry, music and literature, but it never gets old. We are part of nature whether we embrace it or not. This week, think about where your metaphoric seedlings need to stretch to grow.
Whether it’s a physical stretch after sitting too long, a mental stretch as you challenge old ways of thinking, or an emotional stretch as you step into something unfamiliar, the act of stretching creates new possibilities. It releases stagnant thoughts and ideas to make room for new ones.
Why You Need to Stretch
Growth doesn’t happen without some level of discomfort. When you stretch physically, mentally, or creatively you stay flexible and open. It also helps to:
- Increase resilience by gradually expanding our limits.
- Stay adaptable in changing situations.
- Discover new strengths and capabilities.
- Break free from repetitive patterns and routines.
- Prevent stagnation and encourage forward movement.
Your stretch can be something as simple as stepping away from a project and returning with a fresh perspective. It can be trying something new (or something you think you would hate!). Don't overthink it. Just stretch!
Sit, Write, Move [SWiM]: A Practice for Stretching
Stretching is both a physical and mental practice. By consciously engaging in movement and reflection, we open ourselves up to new possibilities. You can do the whole practice outdoors and if the weather is good, take your SWiM to the park or beach. Some things to consider this week:
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Where in my life am I resisting growth?
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What small changes can I make to expand my comfort zone?
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How can I approach challenges with curiosity instead of fear?
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Where can I introduce movement (physical or mental) to shift my perspective?
Small, consistent stretches over time create the biggest transformations so give it a go. Here's how:
Sit
Find a comfortable space to sit and set a timer with a quiet ringtone for 5 minutes. Take a deep breath. Notice where in your body you feel tension or tightness. Let go. Pay attention to areas that need a little more space to breathe and breathe deeply into the corners of your body. When you feel relaxed, return to your normal breathing pattern.
Write
Set a timer for 5–10 minutes. Answer these questions: Where do I feel stuck? What is holding me back? How can I stretch myself in a new way today and this week? (It can be a physical, emotional or workplace stretch)
Move
Stand up and reach your arms overhead. Drop one arm down and raise the other arm over your head. Don't force anything. Just stretch. Repeat on the other side. Do this for a few minutes throughout your day. Notice how movement shifts your perspective. What feels different when you return to your work, your thoughts, or your project?
You can do the Sit, Write, Move [SWiM] exercises in any order at any time of day. Notice how stretching yourself throughout the day shifts your perspective! Next week, we'll "reflect" on where you have been and honor the work you've done.
For more activities and resources, please go to www.WritingYoga.com
Thank you for making the world a calmer, more creative and compassionate place!
