Summary

The website content discusses the concept of mindfulness, particularly in the context of creativity, and offers practical suggestions for incorporating mindfulness into daily life to enhance one's creative work.

Abstract

The article "Mindfulness as a Creator" emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in managing stress and anxiety, and its relevance for creative individuals. It challenges the common misconception that mindfulness is synonymous with meditation, suggesting instead that it is about being fully present in the moment, regardless of the activity. The author, who has personal experience with therapy, shares how mindfulness became a valuable tool for peace and creativity. The piece provides three specific practices to foster mindfulness: taking regular stretch breaks to focus on the body, enjoying a device-free meal to engage with the sensory experience of eating, and actively listening to a favorite song to immerse oneself in the music. These practices are presented as accessible ways to cultivate mindfulness and rejuvenate the mind and body, ultimately benefiting one's creative output.

Opinions

The author initially found the concept of mindfulness frustrating but later recognized its value in their therapeutic journey.
Mindfulness is not limited to meditation; it is an approach to living that can be integrated into various daily activities.
Creative work benefits from mindfulness practices, which help to clear the mind and refresh the body.
Taking short, regular stretch breaks is advocated as a method to maintain physical health and mental presence.
The author admires the Spanish approach to meal times, emphasizing the importance of disconnecting from work during meals to enjoy the present moment.
Listening to music with full attention is suggested as a powerful way to experience emotions and sensations, enhancing overall well-being and creativity.

Mindfulness as a Creator

It’s easier than you think

Photo by Shashi Chaturvedula on Unsplash

A couple of years ago, I started seeing a therapist to help me deal with grief, stress, and anxiety. One of things she would habitually bring up was mindfulness. This used to drive me nuts.

Looking back, I realize I wasn’t ready to be mindful. I wasn’t ready to accept that in order to be at peace, I need to make room for peace. Goodness knows I’d made enough room for anger, stress, and depression.

When you think of being mindful, what comes to mind? I’m sure many people self-correct mindfulness to meditation and decide it’s not for them. Don’t get me wrong, meditation is a great way to practice mindfulness.

But it’s not the best way, and it’s certainly not the only way.

What is mindfulness, anyways?

According to Mindful, “Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.”

In simpler terms? Being present in the moment, whatever the moment is. Maybe it’s grocery shopping or doing laundry or walking the dogs. Not letting your thoughts wander to what’s stressing you out or whatever big project you have at work.

Like everything else, mindfulness is difficult at first. But like anything else, it will get easier with practice. Here are three ways to start bringing mindfulness into your creative space. Your work will thank you.

Stretching

Most of the creative people I know are writers. Writers are champions at sitting. All day, every day. In case you haven’t heard, sitting isn’t all that great for you. And sure, there are desks you can stand at, but I’m not a fan when I’m writing.

The solution? Stretch breaks. Trying to be creative and produce quality work for long periods of time is never a good idea. Taking short stretch breaks every 30 or 60 minutes is a great solution.

The best part? Stretching is a great way to practice mindfulness. Say you want to stretch your hamstrings. Stand up and slowly bend over, one vertebra at a time. Focus on your spine, picture it slowly curving downward.

While you’re doing this, stay in the moment. Focus only on the action of bending and the sensations that it causes in your muscles. Feel the burn, as they say.

For thirty seconds, you will be entirely present in your body, in the moment. No thoughts about the project you’re working on, impending deadlines, or kids. Just the stretch. You’ll end up refreshing more than your muscles.

Take an actual lunch break

When I had the chance to travel to Spain for work a couple years ago, one of the things I noticed in my short time there was their attitude towards food.

People would take hour-long plus breaks for lunch and dinner. They would sit with family, friends, even colleagues, and enjoy a freshly prepared meal. The best part? No one talked about work. No one was on their laptops, tablets, or phones. They ate, drank, and made merry.

The merry part may not be achievable all of the time, but the eating and drinking free of devices or work is.

Weather permitting, go outside. At the office? Go the break room or an empty conference room. Work from home? Choose any room with a table and chair that’s not in your workspace.

No TV, no books, no nothing except you and a beverage, bowl, or plate. Pay attention to each bite and sip. Really taste the different flavors and textures. Notice how eating makes you feel.

While you’re eating, try to focus solely on eating and all the related sensations. Clear your mind of your work or home troubles.

When you’re done, your mind and body will be refreshed and ready to tackle the second half of your day.

Listen to your favorite song

I don’t mean put your favorite song on in the background while you continue trying to get work done.

Put your headphones on, scoot away from the keyboard or easel, and close your eyes. Play the song loud enough that you can’t hear background noise but not so loud your ears will hurt afterwards.

Pay attention to each note and lyric. Notice as the music swells and sinks. Does the music make you feel happy or sad? Let the whole song move through you. Try to think about nothing while you are listening except the song.

One of my favorite songs to do this with is Autobots Reunite by Steve Jablonsky. I love the pounding bass and the way the orchestra slowly builds in intensity. This song leaves me feeling pumped and ready to give whatever writing task I’m facing another go.

Got a favorite way to be mindful during your day? Let me know!

Looking for something similar to read? Check out Celebration As Joy by Trista Signe Ainsworth.

Natalie Gasper is an internationally performed poet whose work has appeared in The Write Launch, The Hickory Stump, Sheila-Na-Gig, Noon by Arachne Press, and ellipsis…literature & art, amongst others. Natalie writes poetry, short stories, and fantasy books. She is attending the editing certificate program at the University of Washington to pursue her dream of becoming a developmental editor. Find her on Twitter @NatalieGasper.