“Creativity without rest, and productivity
without renewal, leads to an exhaustion of our inner resources.”
Christine Valters Paintner, The Artist’s
Rule
Kate’s Turn:
Summer is not a time of rest in the natural world. Buds, blooms, leaves, fruit. Productivity
at it’s highest, the apex of the seasonal cycle, abundance its signature. And
while nature flourishes, people often view summer as a time for vacation,
taking a break from routine and productivity for rest and relaxation.
Who doesn’t want to
be in the summer season of the creative cycle all the time – productive,
prolific, generating creative expression in high volume? However, constantly
pushing to produce can burn you out. Waning creative energy, even being stalled
or stuck, gets frustrating and is not often recognized as part of the natural cycle
of creativity. These signs are actually indicators that rest and renewal are
needed. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you put your art materials in
storage. Taking a class, visiting new and inspiring places, experimenting with
a new twist on your work – all of these give you a break from your routine and a
recharge of your creative energy and resources. Your inner resources are
strengthened by investing energy in your relationship with your creative nature.
Allow this to be fun – let your livin’ be easy while easing up for a time on output.
“Those who
contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure
as long as life lasts.” Rachel Carson
Get Fired Up:
How can you let the summer season be a time to restore a
winter season of your creative cycle?
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