To Do List 2020: Self-Care, Self-Reflect, Self-Aware

The Struggle Is Real!

As a full-time working art therapist, art is all day every day. When I’m not doing art, I’m writing progress notes about art. Art. Art. Art. What about my personal art process? It’s true, I dropped the ball. I enjoyed my brief “YouTube career” as I created virtual lessons for my students. I even started getting used to Telehealth. I thought since I still had “art” in my life, I was doing okay. The truth is that art therapists often don’t keep up with their own artistic processes.

Finding My Way Back To Art

When I first found out about the Deconstruct It Art Exhibition, I was so excited! I love art movements, especially those run by amazing art therapists. Every time I began to read the directive, I would have a mental block. Nothing. I could barely understand the words I was reading. I realized it was time for self-reflection and self-care. I have been avoiding processing all of my feelings, instead just focusing on work.—something that makes me a great employee, but I need balance to be the best me!

Self-Care Journey

I decided to take some time to focus on my mental health. Perfect timing in the middle of COVID-19. If I couldn’t do art, I would exercise, meditate, or stretch. This was working for me. I could feel myself becoming happier and having more energy. The pandemic and being away from my family were taking a larger toll on me than I realized. I was finding my way back to my creative self, a much-needed trip.

Deconstruct “It”

Deconstruct It gave me the push to self-reflect. It made me realize that I was not fully acknowledging my mind or my body. The experience of just starting this process was eye-opening and helpful. When I finally created my Deconstruct It art piece, I began to recognize some patterns: aspects of my personality and old habits that were circling back.

This awareness allows me to change that cycle and turn toward the path I want to take. Acknowledging what and who are important to me. Where I came from and who I am. How I think about the future. How being in the here and now is where I want to be. It is so important to continue to work on yourself and continue your own creativity to encourage your self-awareness and prosperity.

Make sure to check out the awesome things happening at START Creative Arts Therapy Service and its community services!