Free flowing creative expression!

    In the poem entitled, “New Vision,” that I wrote earlier this year, the first four lines are, “Grounding a New Vision.  Words, music, movement, continuing the flow of life energy, standing up and seeing what arises, the moment will bring the material if we tune in and listen.”  The poem was inspired by my time in Austin, TX, reading at an open mic poetry night.  A group of anywhere between six and twenty people would gather and share their work.  A few people would come with their instruments as well, and share their songs.  It was a magical experience.  It offered this safe space for free expression and creativity to flow.  And it provided people with the opportunity to get in touch with their voice and share their words with a group.  Many times people hold back their “truth” for fear of judgment, rejection or being misunderstood.  Many people keep their inspired or creative ideas inside because don’t want to be rejected or seen as being “crazy” or too “out there.”  So, without that outlet to speak and share, that creative urge gets stuck or stifled and can lead to all sorts of inner discord.  Some will find that they have all sorts of mental activity, feel restless, or feel fatigued for no reason.

    We’re coming into a time when it’s more and more imperative to re-connect with our voice, and find outlets for the creative activity that surges within us.  We can’t turn it off, and we’re simply not meant to.  The key is to find a safe context where you can begin.  For me, reading at the open mic inspired me to write poetry.  Before that time, poetry wasn’t even on the radar as a way for me to express my creative ideas!  But wow, what a gift it has been, and what a journey as well!  Sometimes I don’t even know what I’m writing, the words come so fast. I share some of my experience here as a way of inviting you to get in touch with your voice and find an outlet to express it.  It can begin with journal writing, or with meeting with a good friend at a coffee shop and talking about what you’re most inspired by.  Or if you're feeling stuck, not knowing where to begin, talk to a coach (hint, hint).  It can also take the form of a blog post, a youtube video, or commenting on some one else’s blog post.  The key is to start where you are, and begin to build momentum.  Once that judgmental mind quiets and the creative mind is sparked so much more is possible, and you’ll feel much better as a result.  When I say in the poem, “The moment will bring the material if we tune in and listen,” I’m talking about that creative expression that just shows up and is ready to be shared.  Think of the child, who with enthusiasm speaks what’s on their mind, without all the filters of questions like, “What will people think when I say this?”  Once this type of creative expression starts to happen it can be so freeing and fun!  Again, as mentioned earlier, it starts with finding a safe space, where you’re comfortable sharing.  If you set the intention, something is bound to show up.  3,2,1…go!

---