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Creativity & Self-Expression (Mental Health Awareness Month)

PeacePink May 23rd

Hello everyone, 

I hope this message finds you in a moment of inspiration and creative energy. As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, I am hosting yet another discussion activity, this time about creative expression. Creativity and self-expression are important in nurturing our inner words and promoting self-discovery. Let's take a moment to delve into the importance of creativity. 

Understanding the Importance of Creativity and Self-Expression:

Creativity is not reserved for artists; it's a fundamental part of being human. Whether through art, writing, music, dance, or any other form of expression, creativity allows us to tap into our innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Self-expression, in turn, provides a means of communicating our unique perspectives and connecting with others on a deeper level. Embracing creativity and self-expression fosters authenticity, resilience, and emotional well-being.

Suggestions for Feedback and Reflection Activities: 
1) Freeform Art: Set aside some time to engage in freeform art without any specific outcome in mind. Allow yourself to explore different mediums and techniques, letting your intuition guide your creative process.
2) Storytelling Circle: Gather with other community members and take turns sharing stories from your lives. These stories can be personal anecdotes, fictional narratives, or anything that sparks your imagination. Practice active listening and create a supportive space for each other's creative expression.
I will start by writing the first sentence of a story. Feel free to continue the story from where the previous member left off. Add your own ideas and let your creativity flow, while being respectful and abiding by the rules of the Trauma Support forum. Here's the first sentence:
As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with orange and pink hues, young Maya discovered an old, dusty key hidden beneath the roots of an ancient oak tree.
3) Found Object Creation: Go on a scavenger hunt and collect found objects from your environment. Use these objects to create a collage, sculpture, or mixed media artwork that reflects your unique perspective and experiences. Embrace the beauty of repurposing and find meaning in unexpected materials.

Mental Health Awareness Month is a space for us to come together and celebrate the infinite possibilities of creativity and self-expression. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just beginning to explore your creative side, your presence and insights are valuable. Feel free to share your thoughts on the importance of creativity and participate in the suggested activities. If you have any creative expression activities that have been particularly meaningful for you, please share them with the community.

Tickled pink,
PeacePink

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Tinywhisper11 May 23rd

@PeacePink I've been writing poetry lately, it really helps to get thoughts out ❤ most of the things I draw or paint, start with just a thought of image in my mind, I rarely think about the whole picture. And most the things I make are from recycling materials I can use😁 even the old folks here at the nursing home where I live, keep any old things I can use for art. I like making things ❤ ❤

what about you, does drawing and writing help you?? Hope you're doing ok this week ❤

3 replies
PeacePink OP May 23rd

@Tinywhisper11

I also enjoy writing poetry to get my thoughts out onto paper; it's nice to hear that you are also an enjoyer of poetry. It sounds like you go with the flow and what comes along as you draw or paint--I tend myself to think about everything carefully in my mind before starting. It's cool to hear that you've been recycling things to use for art--a lot of people worry about art being wasteful or harmful to the environment, so reusing what is already there for art can be something different and beautiful. I also love to make things, and it's so fun! I hope you're doing okay this week too! 

I also love to draw and write; I write romance stories and draw fantasy creatures, like aliens, dragons, or myths because they help pull me away from the real world to something distracting and more immersive in the sense, that it's dreamy, sort of like an escape from stressors in everyday life.

2 replies
Tinywhisper11 May 23rd

@PeacePink.  Ooo! Fantasy creatures can be fun to draw ❤ I'm so glad you find peace and happiness in art and poetry. And writing a book that's amazing ❤❤ gives you a giant tiny hug ❤

1 reply
PeacePink OP May 24th

@Tinywhisper11

Thanks, they are pastimes that I really enjoy doing, and they help take things off my mind and relax. *gives you a giant hug right back* 

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Tinywhisper11 May 23rd

@PeacePink as Maya picked up the key, a thought came to her mind, in her garden at the back of the house, is a locked  door on the ground. She always assumed it was a old war bunker or something.. Something in the back of her mind was saying to try unlock it with this old rusty key....

8 replies
PeacePink OP May 23rd

@Tinywhisper11

Heart pounding, Maya ran back to her garden, the key clutched tightly in her hand. Kneeling beside the door, she inserted the key into the rusty lock, feeling a thrill of excitement, perhaps apprehension, as it turned with a satisfying click. 

7 replies

@PeacePink @tinywhisper11

As soon as the door creaked open, some spider webs fell on Maya’s head and she quickly said, “Ewwwww,” and wiped them away. Some automatic lights clicked on! What was this? Large plants growing, bright green succulents, and warm humid air from somewhere (where?) but the air was fresh smelling, inviting, it was some sort of garden tunnel! Maya took a few tentative steps forward.

6 replies
Tinywhisper11 May 23rd

@PatienceImpatiens hi pat ❤❤ how have you been doing lately?? Gives you a giant tiny hug ❤I love you

Tinywhisper11 May 23rd

@PatienceImpatiens intriqued, and curious, yet a little nervous, she followed the garden tunnel. Passing through grape vines, and beautiful flowers, that gave off a magical scent. The tunnel went on for what seemed like miles, then finally she reached the end, a huge smile of delight upon mayas face as she gazed upon.....

4 replies
PeacePink OP May 24th

@Tinywhisper11 @PatienceImpatiens

...a hidden paradise. Before Maya lay a lush garden, filled with exotic plants and flowers of every color imaginable. In the center of the garden stood a fountain, its waters sparkling in the soft glow of the an unknown light source. Maya approached the fountain, in awe of the cascading water and realizing she had stumbled upon a secret haven. What was the garden for, and why didn't her parents tell her about it? Why would the garden have been hidden in the back of her house and locked behind a door?

3 replies
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