Send your brain some signals

One of the best things I have done for my creative practice is adopt a routine for starting my practice. When I only had a few minutes to create, it seemed like I should just jump in. I would often feel discombobulated, my brain not shifting from “mom mode”. I would spend that precious time thinking about the laundry I needed to finish or what I was going to make for dinner.

I started adding a little ritual to the beginning of my studio time. Initially I started with just lighting a candle and taking a few deep breaths. Over time I have added to that routine. Now I have a stack of inspirational cards I pull from, incense I burn, candles, even a Tibetan bell. The important thing isn’t what you use, it’s that you have a routine that works for you.

There is a little science behind this. Our brain reads our routines to prepare itself for specific activities that it has learned over time. If you put on workout clothes enough, you brain prepares for exercise. Your pajamas can trigger sleep. The brain likes routines, so it is always trying to learn them. A repeated routine can create a new neural pathway. That is how habits are formed.

What to include in your creative ritual….

• Candles, incense or an oil diffuser

• Tea or coffee

• Cleaning your desk

• Refill your water container

• Your favorite music

• Pick an inspirational card

• Sit and breathe

• Anything that brings you into the moment