The Artist's Way --- Week 9

I've just finished week 9 of the "Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. This is a follow-up to the original post and 4th week reflections.

As previously noted, there are many assignments each week. Some of the reoccurring assignments are daily journaling, artist's dates and artist's walks.

I've been faithful with my journaling, completing three pages first thing in the morning. I have found the journaling  helped clear my head and communicate any anxiety, fears, concerns, joys and disappointments. It has helped me to see some of my temper tantrums and that there was always light at the end of the tunnel.

The artist's dates have been easy to accomplish because I regularly visit galleries, attend performances and much of my free time is dedicated to exploring or creating art.

Because we have had such a dark and cold spring, the artist's walks have been few and far between.

I am embracing the encouragement from the author that art is not something frivalous, or that it is any less important then the other activities in our adult life. It is something I must do. Practicing my art is good for me. Good for those I love. Good for those that enjoy it. The way we thank God for our talents.

Here are some paragraphs from Chapter 9 that really resonated with me:

"That part of us that creates best is not a drive, disciplined automaton, functioning from willpower, with a boost of price to back it up. This is operating out of self-will. You know the image: rising at dawn with military precision, saluting the desk, the easel, the drawing board...

Over an extended period of time, being an artist requires enthusiasm more than discipline. Enthusiasm is not an emotional state. It is a spiritual commitment, a loving surrender to our creative process, a loving recognition of all the creativity around us.

Enthusiasm (from the Greek, "filled with God") is an ongoing energy supply tapped into the flow of life itself. Enthusiasm is grounded in play, not work. Far from being a brain-numbed soldier, our artist is actually our child within, our inner playmate. As with all playmates, it is joy, not duty, that makes for a lasting bond."

My favorite assignments:

• List 10 things I want to do
• My list was so doable and doesn't include anything too exotic or elaborate. Money or time are not roadblocks to these wants.
• List people I admire
• Most of the people I admire are "Renaissance Men" who have done many things well and were leaders in many different areas. They also had a good time while they were achieving greatness and were definitely unconventional.
• Send five post cards to people I'd like to see again
• No problem naming five people to reconnect with.

Although I am losing a bit of interest in the journaling, I will complete the process with the best of intentions. In fact, I returned the library's copy and bought the book for myself. I can see this as a resource to revisit annually to unblock my artist and bring in new inspiration.

Have you worked this program, or a similar process, and what did you gain?

Peace,

Annette DeMaggio

www.songsofjoymi.com

734-693-6656

Yoga4Peace --- Yoga for Musicians

Erin Moss  & Yoga4Peace have planned two yoga practices especially for musicians. "Yoga for Musicians" is scheduled for Sunday April 20th and 27th.

According to their website, "After playing the flute for over 8 years, participating in musical theater, and having discussions with a plethora of musically inclined friends, I began to notice that many musicians complained about the same ailments again and again. I have developed a class that can, with continued practice, help to alleviate and possibly even prevent these issues due to poor posture, sitting or standing too long, holding up a heavy instrument, or the repetitive motion that making music often requires."

Yoga4Peace is a wonderful practice space and the instructors are well trained and inclusive of students regardless of yoga experience.

Visit their website for more information about Yoga4Peace and the "Yoga for Musicians" practices.

http://y4peace.org/

If you attend the yoga practice,  or are a yogi and/or musician with a comment, please share your experience with the community here.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com

Creative Activities Sited in Search Institute Developmental Assets

The Search Institute, a non-profit based in Minnesota, that for fifty years, has been an innovator in discovering what kids need to succeed in their families, schools, and communities. The organization has identified 40 Developmental Assets that help young people grow up healthy, caring and responsible. These range from positive family communication and support to creative activities, personal empowerment and a sense of purpose.

The 40 Developmental Assets are broken down into two categories, External Assets and Internal Assets.
One of the 20 External Assets is Creative Activities.

By age group, here are the building blocks for Creative Activities:

Children Grades K-3 (age 5 - 9)
Child participates weekly in music, dance or other form of artistic expression outside of school.

Middle Childhood (age 8 - 12)
Child participates in music, art, drama or creative writing two or more times per week.

Adolescents (ages 12 - 18)
Young person spends three or more hours per week in lessons or practice in music, theater, or other arts.

Even for adults, it remains important to maintain solid blocks upon which to build and grow. A genuine curiosity and love of lifelong learning will improve any one's quality of life. In fact, I would encourage adults to adopt these Developmental Assets for themselves.

To learn more about the Search Institute and available resources, check out their website:

http://www.search-institute.org/content/what-kids-need

Please comment on the importance of Creative Activities. Your personal experience may encourage others to enjoy this life enhancing asset.

Peace,
Annette DeMaggio
www.songsofjoymi.com