Have you ever wondered if you have a painting, a book, or a sculpture buried somewhere inside yourself? Do you connect deeply to other people’s works of art and envy their ability to express themselves creatively?
If so, then you may be hearing the creative call stirring from within yourself. Unfortunately, some people try to override their creative energy by listening to their “Inner Critic”—the voice in their heads that continually reminds them that they “certainly are no artist.” Well I invite you to consider this:
~ It is never too late to discover and cultivate your creativity ~
Yep, the “Inner Critic” can rant and rave, but that negative chatter doesn’t have to win. In fact, you might let the Inner Critic know that you don’t have to create “a masterpiece”—you can just have some fun! Reassuring that cautious, fearful part can be a great way to give ourselves permission to dip a toe in a refreshing, creative pool!
Now, just so you know, a creative call can descend upon anyone without the slightest provocation. And, a creative call can even whisper to people who believe they don’t have an artistic bone in their bodies—like one of my clients experienced. In her work life, Rachel was a successful CPA who enjoyed helping her clients manage their finances. However, after 20 years in the field, she began to notice some creative stirrings going on within herself. At first the creative call was subtle; Rachel unexpectedly found herself attracted to art galleries. 
The creative call became louder one night while Rachel was attending an art opening that featured various abstract expressionists’ work. She stood in front of one painting and felt tears welling up in her eyes. The wild abandon expressed in this painting made her heart ache—in kind of a good way. Rachel stood mesmerized by the rich colors and flowing textures.
The next morning, Rachel searched the Internet and found a page on my website: “Creative Process Consulting.” She called and came to see me once a week, for about two months. During our work, Rachel learned tools to help tame her Inner Critic so that she could connect to her “Inner Muse.” During our work together (I’m happy to report), Rachel moved quickly beyond her resistance to being an artist. And, she began painting in acrylic—doing abstracts. Years later, she still paints, shows with local art organizations, and sells some of her original art.
In my private practice, I work with many creative souls. Some of these clients need support in finding their “creative voices” for the first time, like Rachel. Other clients are seasoned artisans who feel stuck in the mire of a creative block. Now, in case you’re interested, this summer I’m offering a fun workshop to assist people who want to explore their creativity in a nurturing and nonjudgmental environment. My workshop is called, “The Zen of Sketching.” And the cool part is—this workshop combines two of my favorite practices: meditation and sketching.
One of the benefits of combining meditation with sketching is—that when we’re fully in the “creative process” we often relax into the present moment. The world around us quietly recedes as we are transported into our creative expression. That’s when the peacefulness of creativity flows in…and quiets the mind and soothes the soul.
So, if you are feeling curious and hearing the creative call for the first time, or if you are an intermediate level artist, or an established artist who wants to dig deeper—then I have numerous tools (including my upcoming workshop) that may be of interest to you. And, to take that first step into your creativity, know that you don’t need a beret or a paint-splattered smock, you simply need a curious mind…and a willing heart.
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To receive more information about Trina’s upcoming workshop, “The Zen of Sketching” (for women and men), send an email to: info@TrinaSwerdlow.com. Don’t miss out on the creative FUN!
Trina Swerdlow, BFA, CCHT, is a Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, an artist, and the author and illustrator of Stress Reduction Journal. Trina’s artwork and bio are included in Outstanding American Illustrators Today 2. She currently has a private practice in downtown Danville. Trina passionately supports her clients in reaching their goals. You can reach her at: (925) 285.5759, or info@TrinaSwerdlow.com.
Certified Clinical Hypnotherapy services in California can be alternative or complementary to licensed healing arts, such as psychotherapy.
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