Creativity and nature go hand in hand . . .
Do you yearn for a way to reconnect to yourself?
To cultivate a sense of calm?
To just be?
Personally, I crave a more elegant way of living.
Simpler. More mindful. Yet magical.
For me, that has meant taking time to create in nature. It’s where I feel free to wander at my own pace. To observe the changing seasons. To wonder with intention. To feel part of the wider world, without the overwhelm.
Green is Good for You
And, although most of us instinctively know that being in nature is a kind of balm for the soul, more scientific studies are now reflecting this too.
For example, Exeter University found that people who spent at least two hours a week in green spaces were substantially more likely to report good health and psychological well-being than those who didn't.
While The Arts Council says:
“We've seen an explosion of evidence too, over the last 10 years in particular, that shows how both nature and creativity respectively can not only serve as foundations for positive mental and emotional wellbeing, but also how they can support people experiencing both chronic and acute mental ill-health.”
Into the Wild
So, early in May 2022, I made a zine-style mini creative journal with the aim of observing and immersing myself in bluebell season. In the blue hue. In the spring birdsong. In the bell curves. (You can see the results below.)
Comprising:
Accessible-to-anyone drawing techniques designed to hone the observational eye — the key is to pay attention to the plant, not the page.
Colour contemplations — because colour says something to us personally, as well as culturally, and even energetically.
Sensing into our surroundings — and recording the moment with a few grounding, rooting, words.
Wonder Wander With Me
I’ll be expanding this mini-journal-making-tour of an idea across the seasons and to include more specific themes. Because nature isn’t just crammed full of plants, trees and wildlife. It boasts a cornucopia of useful metaphors too. Metaphors which can help us look at things with fresh eyes.
I’m no therapist, but the Horticultural Therapy Institute, which promotes the use of “...gardening and plants to improve the lives of others…” agrees:
“Metaphors help unlock the rigid thinking and behavioural patterns in which clients often engage.”
One HTI blogger goes on to say:
“The list of metaphors from the garden is infinite! I carry a “metaphor diary” to keep track of all of them.”
Intrigued? Inspired? Please do sign up to receive news of upcoming wonder wanders in the Leigh-on-Sea and Southend area.
PS I shared my bluebell appreciation project with some fellow serenity-seekers one Friday afternoon. You can spy some of the results below.
