Last time I discussed the freedom that coincides with being creative, this time I thought I’d share some ideas for integrating this new found freedom into our everyday living. By Tabitha Pick, Creative Arts Counsellor

For the past few weeks (well maybe months) hubby and I have been tirelessly working on converting a double shed into a studio. We are at the final stages now and I am giddy with anticipation of the thought of finally having a creative space to call home. Before this, don’t get me wrong, I managed to get creative on the kitchen table (like most of us!!) but the flow was inevitably interrupted. Things had to be moved or put away to get ready for meal times or visitors and sometimes it all seemed too hard.

The days it did work however were the ones that I prepared for. At first I questioned my organizational mind frame, after all such an enormous part of being creative for me is the spontaneity in the moment and the need to be centered in the present. But I came to realize that these elements would not manifest if I didn’t mould and shape the space both physically and mentally to the most beneficial conditions to get my creative flow on.

Physical space.  A critical factor in getting the most out of your creative experience. Plenty of room to play and have fun is essential. Then work with elements that resonate with you. If you’re more of a moody, emotive creator, close the curtains and lights some candles. If you like it loud, pump that stereo dial up high. Find what works best for you and go with it, there are no rules here.

Materials. Deciding how often, when and where you give to your creative outlet will determine how your materials are stored. Personally I found it a lot easier when I had everything organized in a plastic tub that was in easy reach so it was always accessible. Then when my son was old enough I did the same for him. I also kept a box in the laundry where I would collect materials (cardboard magazines coloured paper etc) for him and I. I really made the decision I wanted to create so I aligned what I could to do so.

Make a day of it. Dedicate the whole day to your creative outlet. Once a week maybe a month or whenever you have a whole day at home. Make it all really easy on yourself. Quick grab meals will call for fewer interruptions. All housework (including dishes) becomes off limits for the whole day. Think of it as a mini retreat for your soul. You wouldn’t come home and start the housework after a massage, allow yourself the day.

Get the kids involved. Ok sometimes little hands can hinder more than help, but the enjoyment will be lost if you are trying to pry small fingers off your materials the whole time. So my big tip is getting rid of them!! But if this is not possible give them their own creative space along side you with their own materials and project.  Don’t fight it, go with it.

Love the mess. Let’s face it, getting creative is messy work! So if you feel uncomfortable with mess, there will be a struggle to let go and allow yourself the luxury of having fun. Watch a toddler play; they go from one toy to the next in a flow of discovery and intrigue. You yourself will be on a similar expedition sometimes unsure of just where your creative journey will take you. Enjoy the ride!

So now that your physical space is all set, how do we switch off from the everyday routine to inner calm, relaxation and creative flow? Well that’s another story…

Seeker, Artist, Blogger, Ceremony Facilitator and Mama, Tabitha has been paving a path to the ways of the divine feminine for well over 10 years. After completing a diploma in arts for health and healing she is now moving this energy forward celebrating and honoring women as the divine expression of the goddess through ceremony, workshops and women only gatherings. Although her work is exclusively with women it is her hope that the divinity of female energy is acknowledged and awakened in all people.

Visit www.sacredsistar.com