Creative exercises?

Question

As I age, gain more responsiblity and encounter more stressful situations, I feel life is starting to put a strain on my creativity. I'm noticing that my brain is not as creative as it once was. It worries me because my livelihood is a video/film production, and like writers block, I feel that I'm having a creative block. Any exercises or suggestions for me? Eee. Thanks in advance..

Answer 1

GREAT QUESTION.

Please take a look at the book "THE ARTIST'S WAY" by Julia Cameron.  I'm sure your local library has it.  It is full of creative exercises which will stimulate your creative energies.  I have worked professionally in the field of art as a painter and designer and have heard for years how good this book was, but I didn't think I needed it.  Then I started to feel a bit artistically constipated and got the book.  Wow!  I can't begin to express how inspirational it has been.

I now take my "Artist Self" out for walks and little tours to inspire the creative drive.  Going to museums and galleries is very inspiring.

I keep a journal of free flowing thoughts and ideas and writing in that journal is often the first thing I do each day.  It has become a goldmine of inspiration.  You will find that the creative drive re-news itself if you will only put yourself to working at creative projects without fearing the results.  

Best wishes to you as you begin this new adventure.

Answer 2

Hi! I don't even deserve the points for this answer. Just want to second the good advice you have received from Gene. Get The Artist's Way and the accompanying workbook.

The artist's dates ... Take time to notice things. Give yourself a break. I mean that however you take it.

You used the 'responsibility' word. Let go of some of it. Those of us (raising my hand) who can do everything, tend TO do everything. Other people will get the work done (though it's hard to believe). We have to be prepared to accept less than perfect work from others. (Hard to do.) But ... what's more important? Our creativity realized? Or every "i" dotted and every "t" crossed?

I have a shirt that says, "Let it go. Just be." Sometimes I feel like I'm wearing it inside out. :)

Light a candle. Take a walk. Take time to do NOTHING. It will come back to you in your work.

Answer 3

I find that yoga and mountain biking help clear the cobwebs of the brain.

Answer 4

2 books. " A Whack on the Side of the Head" and " A Kick in the Seat of the Pants".

Answer 5

nothing is better than YOGA. this is a very good exercise which can give u balance and harmony between body, mind and soul. come on do yoga be healthy. i m practicing yoga from last 18 years.