Inside the OM
Creative Exploration
"Unresolved trauma is stored not only in the mind but also in the body’s tissues.
Until it is metabolized and released, it continues to shape our physiology and behavior."
- Dr. Gabor Mate
There’s something that happens when we create without trying to make it good. It’s like the thinking mind steps to the side for a moment, and what’s underneath it finally gets a chance to speak. Most of us have had that feeling. When we’re painting, writing, dancing, or even cooking, and suddenly we’re in the flow. Time stretches or disappears. We come back to ourselves without even realizing we had left.
That’s the spirit behind these creative invitations. Not to produce something beautiful, but to be with whatever wants to come through. When we make space for expression, especially when the mind gets quiet, things we didn’t even know we were holding can start to rise to the surface.
You don’t need to be an artist. You just need to be curious.
Intuitive Painting or Drawing
Without knowing what you're going to make or create, pick up whatever colors or art tools you’re drawn to. Let your hand move, and see what unfolds. Be surprised by it. You're not trying to make a picture; you are just giving shape to whatever is moving through you. Once it feels finished, let yourself respond to it, not with your mind, but with your body or emotions.
Collage as a Mirror
Tear or cut images that spark something in you. Don’t try to figure out why or make a plan. Just collect. Then arrange them in a way that feels right. Often, the story we didn’t know we were telling begins to reveal itself through the layers. Pause and look at what’s there. What do you feel as you take it in?
Draw What Your Body Feels Like
Before reaching for a pen or pencil, take a moment and check in with your body. Where do you feel pressure, softness, tightness, warmth? Let your drawing reflect those sensations. Not as a literal image, but however they want to take shape on the page. When you're done, spend some time just taking it in. What stands out?
Watercolor Emotional Release
Spread a layer of water over your paper. Dip your brush in color and let it drop, pool, and swirl across the water on the page. Don’t think about what it should look like; just let it run. The water will carry whatever emotion is present, whether it’s sadness, relief, anger, or joy. When it feels complete, feel and reflect on what you see in it.