Write On Wednesday

This week's Write on Wednesday prompt:

Do you find that physical activity inspires your creativity? What’s works best for you - walking, running, dancing, kickboxing? How do you get in touch with your body, and use that awareness to inform your writing? How do you keep your body and mind in balance?

I love walking my dog, but other than that, I'm not very physical. I realize I need to incorporate more physical activity into my life, but I'd rather be reading, writing or knitting!

The thing that really inspires my creativity is meditation. I try to meditate for at least 15 minutes every morning - more if I have the time. I work as a church secretary, so my meditation most often occurs in the dark, quiet sanctuary of the church. These quiet moments help to center my life and open me up for more creativity.

I do realize that inactivity has a damaging effect on my body - this is evident whenever I spend a marathon session at the computer keyboard or with the knitting needles. My joints get stiff and my muscles scream for mercy. I have realized the fact I need to get up every hour and stretch my muscles and work my joints. This helps to alleviate some of the stiffness.

In addition to my morning meditation, I try to spent a few minutes before drifting off to sleep trying to relax my mind and body. I systematically stiffen one muscle group at a time and then slowly release to total relaxation. I start with my feet and work up my body. I typically fall asleep while doing deep breathing exercises. This routine helps to give me a restful sleep and it keeps bad thoughts from haunting my dreams.

Being in tuned body, mind and soul takes practice and it is not always a perfect blending. Practice makes perfect, so I strive to find the best balance in my life.

(Photos by EasyArt and GoodAware)