3 Tips for Finding Inner Renewal
Dear Fellow Readers and Writers,
This has been an unconventional year for sure. As 2021 draws to a close, I want to thank the over forty wonderful romance authors I have interviewed in 2020. I encourage everyone to check out their romances when looking for something new to read. And, look forward to seeing more amazing author interviews in the new year!
For today, I wish you all peace and joy and pray we will be refreshed, renewed, and ready for what I hope is a fantastic – and safe and healthy – 2021!
Here are three tips for finding inner renewal:
Here are some ways that I renew myself. They are also helpful in addressing writer’s block.
Happy Ending Story Imagery
Writers know this one well. Lie back and tell yourself a story with a happy ending. It can be from a movie or book you loved. It can be from a childhood fairy tale. It can be unique to you and the moment. Picture it in all the sensory detail you can.
Creating a Freeform Work of Art
Pick up some markers, a pencil, or if you have them watercolors or finger paints. Choose colors that you like. Make lines and shapes across the paper with no goal other than enjoying seeing what will happen. When you are done discard it or save it as you wish.
I taught art for many years. And what I learned is that the act of creating is what is important — not the finished product. Inner renewal happens when you let your hand move freely and the shapes, textures, colors, and scents meld into a moment in time.
Breathing in the World
Inner renewal requires us to involve our bodies. Our breath and our sense of smell are uniquely tied together. Every so often stop what you are doing and take several deep breaths. If you can take those breaths outside where you can inhale the scents of nature. If that is not possible, light a scented candle or infuse the air with an essential oil or aromatic fruit such as a lemon or orange.
Reading for Renewal
Here are some books that I have found helpful when I am under stress.
The Little Book of Gratitude by Robert A. Emmons
Surprisingly, showing gratitude to others and for the things that give us pleasure can heal stress and make us more optimistic.
The No Worries Workbook by Molly Burford
This book is full of fun, creative ways to relieve stress and find the positives in your life.
And last, but far from the least, I find reading a romance, especially an old favorite, is a perfect stress reliever. Because no matter what worrisome things happen to the main characters, you know there will be a happy ending.
Thanks for the article, Zara.
Zara – thanks for thoughtful tips. Also – thanks for hosting all these authors on your blog each year. I always find good reads through this blog and learn more about the authors I love. Plus, I discover new authors. I do love listening to music and reading romances. I have to admit, I have been plowing through books this year – those wonderful romances have saved me and reinvigorated me to get back to my own writing!.
I so love doing the interviews and learning about writer’s lives. We all bring such different experiences to our books. So glad you have found some great reads here.
Oh I love these! I find listening to classical music in the car while I drive soothes me–when my anxiety is bad, I get lyrics stuck in my head, so I need the stuffy, wordless kind. 🙂 And walking the dog gets my blood flowing and and puts me in a better frame of mind. Also, meditation when things are really stressful.
Great suggestions. Anna and you both pointed out how music can calm us. Walking a dog and being outdoors is also a great idea.
Hi Zara,
Listening to my favorite music has always been my number one go to for stress relief. Thanks for these tips. I’ll give them a try.
Oh yes, music is very powerful. Here is a great article on all the benefits of listening to music that I found amazing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/music-and-health