Creativity and Self-Care

Often in the busy-ness of life, we are prone to equate self-care with self-indulgence.
As bearers of God’s image, however, we are created and creative beings. Practicing creativity reflects the Creator's hand in our lives.

“Each of us has some natural bent toward creativity and expression,” shared Rebecca Lowry, therapist at Associates in Christian Counseling. “It may be painting or drawing, singing or playing an instrument, gardening, decorating or writing. Whatever the outlet, we need to recognize them as gifts from God, give ourselves permission to enjoy them and share them with others. Our expressive outlets are means of telling our stories, and in the telling of those stories, we become more whole.”

Writing is the most basic way of telling a story. It can be both creative and therapeutic. Rebecca continued by saying that “those who engage in writing describe it as cathartic, as a sturdy ladder out of a pit, as a way of remembering who we are, of shifting perspective, of discovering meaning in pain. Research has shown that writing about traumatic events, linking events with feelings, improves both physical and psychological health. Particular studies have been done with breast cancer patients demonstrating a correlation between journaling and positive outcome.” For others this same experience can be achieved in quilting, sculpting, singing or playing music--anything which expresses our feelings.

Scripture begins with God’s act of creation. As we continue to read, we see words of history, of praise, of sorrow and grief, and gratitude. There is poetry, songs, instruments played, and dancing. If we look to the Scriptures for comfort, we may find creative expression everywhere. As we consider self-care, don’t see it as luxury but necessity. See it as a precious gift through which we may each tell our own story, as He tells His through His creation.

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