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Hey Reader,

What do you do when you are a 43 year old about to blow your top at your children who have pushed every single button you have at the end of the school term break???

(OK, okay, you might not fit this **exact** demographic, but the question is relevant - how do you cope with frustration/stress?)

I wanted to share a moment from this past weekend when I found myself retreating to my studio to deal with some parenting frustration. It's been such a discovery for me, realising how therapeutic making art can be for releasing stress and calming my nervous system. But, believe me, it wasn't always like this. It took time for me to give myself permission to process my feelings in this adaptive way. It's often more likely that we reach for less adaptive behaviours when things get too much, and I get that, but discovering and committing to art as a way of stress relief has been a game changer for me. So, if you're not there yet, please be gentle with yourself and keep working at it, if this is something you'd like to explore.

One thing I've realised on this journey is that each time we engage with our creativity, whether through play or art-making, we're actually strengthening those neural connections in our brains. We're making it easier for ourselves to enter a state of play, where we can explore and express without judgment.

Here are three tips that have helped me incorporate creative practice into my life as a form of adaptive stress relief:

1. Make time for play: Schedule regular sessions for creative play, even if it's just for a few minutes each day. Whether it's doodling, dancing, or experimenting with new materials, give yourself the space to play without any specific outcome in mind.
2. Create a supportive environment: If you can, designate a space in your home where you feel comfortable expressing yourself creatively. This can be as simple as an art journal or sketchbook and a pencil case. Where you can, gather inspiring materials, colours, and textures that invite exploration and experimentation. Having a dedicated space can make it easier to tap into your creativity whenever you need it, this can be at the kitchen bench or even in the car for when you are parked and waiting. Don't make the fact you don't have a studio stop you. Many famous artists started in some tiny space or a kitchen table.
3. Practice Self-Compassion: Remember that creativity is a process, not a destination. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge every small step you take towards incorporating art into your life. If you encounter resistance or self-doubt, sit with that feeling and invite it in, remembering to treat yourself with kindness and curiosity. It's okay to take things one step at a time.

By embracing creativity as a form of adaptive stress relief, we're not only finding healthier ways to process our emotions but also nurturing our inner resilience and self-expression.

Keep creating, keep exploring, and remember that your path is uniquely yours.

ATypI Conference - Workshop Tomorrow!

Looking forward to seeing you at this weeks ATypI Conference if you are going, I have my workshop tomorrow!

Are you attending? Hit reply and let me know.

Live session this weekend - PTP

We have our next live call this weekend - Sunday morning AEST. Would you like to come and join us in the Permission to Play Members Group? It's a very low cost way to keep yourself accountable to your creativity, best part is you can join for 2 weeks for free to see what you think! (There are only 2 spots left before the price increases).

Sending lots of creative energy your way this week!

With Kindness,
Delphie Joy xox

A$5.00 Play It Forward Hey you, fabulous supporter of creativity! 🌟 Have you ever thought about sprinkling a bit of virtual stardust on the... Read more Send a tip

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