Self-Expression

Self-Expression: Practice Makes Perfect

 

Art and writing should be a part of everyone's daily activities. They are paramount to your understanding of your own self. In art and writing you bring forth that which is inside you and if done daily, will incur dramatic results. The practice of self expression will elevate your thought process just as much as if you did other things that required deep thought, such as crosswords, chess or sudoku.

I studied chess for over a year not too long ago. I have noticed that having done this improved my analytical mind tremendously. I now journal everyday- it is a great form of self-expression and has improved my thinking as well. I believe that I communicate ideas better. I know that the subject matter of my journaling is now much closer to my heart than it was at first. Many journaling sessions at first were very much fitness related. I would write on how many reps I did of a certain exercise and how many I wanted to be able to do. Now I write of things that might be causing me duress, over time I am able to pinpoint these stressors. Most often after I have positively identified these stressors I talk to people about them.

Practicing self-expression should also relieve stress. There is a very therapeutic quality to creating something from within your self. Whether it be drawing a picture or creating a beat with a drum, self-expression is not only a means to an end but is itself a great release of pent up energy. It keeps your mind active and is an enjoyable way to spend some time.

There are many ways to practice self-expression and whether you are in recovery or not I recommend that you adopt at least one that you do daily. You should also do a second on a not-so-daily basis. You could spend time drawing, singing along with your favorite songs, painting, playing a musical instrument or journaling. Which ever you choose, stick with it; you will find in time that it is an indispensable tool for your recovery or well being. You may also become quite talented with a little effort. I know that I always get compliments on my writing from those that read my blog.