30 Days of Self Healing – Day 29
How to heal through creativity
“Creativity allows you to live in the world of possibilities.”
Dr. Fabrizio Mancini
I’ve found that the key to feeling more creative is to rely less on your left brain, the center for logic, and activate your right brain, the center for feeling and creativity. Here are a few techniques that will help you:
— Write. If writing appeals to you, sit down each morning and write whatever comes to your mind. Don’t edit a thing; just let the words flow. What should you write about? I suggest that if you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, or depression (or even joy), write about these emotions. You’ll release pent-up feelings, including guilt, sadness, or anger—emotions that can block your body’s ability to heal. Writing reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol, too much of which can harm your immunity; and numerous studies have shown that writing lowers blood pressure.
It is important to put a positive spin on your writing, too. Bring out the benefits your situation may be making available to you, whether they are some new wisdom you acquired, an important les- son learned, or something that made you feel grateful.
— Use your nondominant hand. This technique feels a little awkward, but it is highly recommended by creativity experts. Close your eyes, take a pencil or pen, and draw on a piece of paper with your nondominant hand for several minutes. This process helps activate the right side of your brain.
— Take a walk. Einstein, one of the greatest creative thinkers of all time, took frequent walks to help him solve problems. And no wonder—walking is a gentle, meditative exercise that helps quiet your left brain. It also increases and promotes oxygen flow to the brain, energizing brain cells for sharper mental performance. Some scientists believe that exercise, in general, triggers the release of various brain chemicals that enhance creativity.
