Welcome to my brain. It’s a little weird in here, but also very kitschy. It’s a New Girl episode where they’re all a lot older and less drinkie. I’d watch it.
Also, my brain today is back in a safe place, so it’s humming with ideas.
I long for spaces that match my insides. If you are a literal person, like my 13-year-old son (aka “the lawyer”), that kind of statement is followed by an “Ew, MOM.”
But I bet some of you understand. I long for spaces that allow me to take a deep breath in, and then out, and feel all *equally pressurized.
Here are some spaces that do NOT help me to feel all equally pressurized:
- The vet. More on this later, but I have had wayyyy too many visits to our local vet lately (they are wonderful and lovely and lovING, but still, no no, not my safe place).
- That one place in Walmart towards the back where that guy in the red button-down is trying to sell you new cell phone service and NO MATTER how much you focus your eyes straight ahead, he still manages to sidle up and you have to do that awkward slow-walk, but you’re also still moving to show him you have places to BE in the Walmart, and no you don’t need a new cell, but also you don’t want to be mean because he’s just trying to make a living? That place.
- Actually, all of Walmart, really.
- Any school supplies aisle right now. Even in Target, where the cool school supplies hang out.
Places that help me to feel safe? Well, here’s one of them:
Nice product placement, Dana. Shameless plug.
You might recognize this coffee house – I was here a few weeks ago for my solo writer’s retreat. I’m back just for a few hours of writing.
It’s safe here. My insides match my outsides here.
Other safe places:
- My front porch
- The dinner table unless there is a casserole involved. Casseroles are my nemesis.
- My back stoop, especially if Rey the Good Dog is with me (She’s a leaner. Do any of you have doggos that like to lean on you? It’s very grounding).
- A church pew
- Cody, Wyoming (I visited there long ago and I rode a horse named Jumper which was apt. I’m coming back, Jumper. Wait for me).
- Anyplace accompanied by a good book. I’m reading The Lioness right now and it’s so gooooooood.
These types of places allow me to actively rest. Then, about four minutes later I’ll have a little burst of ideas, which I’ll have to write down (I usually end up texting myself which can be super awkward if I accidentally text Darrel, my pastor. It’s kind of hard to explain a text that says: ANXIETY BIRDS to my pastor. But you know? I’m sure he aimed for understanding. He always does. Especially with me).
Oh, and here’s another safe space: Anywhere Rey naps. Need proof?
VOILA:
I mean, honestly.
Do you have spaces that help you breathe a little easier? Create a little more? Do they help you fill up, overflow, contribute?
I think space is crucial to creativity. And notice? I used this weird term *equally pressurized. I NEVER said my space helps me feel “balanced.” That’s just a term for gymnasts and 20 year olds.
Where are your safe places?
Would you like to get some ideas to help plan your own creative retreat? Click below:
