Jump Write In

In my last “It Happens” blog on June 13th, I provided two or three writing exercises to help get you out of your writing rut.  But for writers who need alternatives to using their pen to unclog the dam, here are a few non-writing tips to distract you from the stress and get the creative juices flowing again.

1.  Exercise. Whether you are going to write your way out of the block or use other methods, getting away from the desk is always the first step.  Go for a long walk, go swimming or do the gardening.  Engaging in physical activity allows random thoughts to flow freely and help clear your head.

2.  Quiet Meditation and Breathing. If you are one of those “burning the midnight oil” type of writers, and walking in the moonlight doesn’t appeal to you, at least light a candle, burn some incense, put on soft music, and do some deep breathing and yoga stretches.  And I mean deep breathing that stretches your diaphragm and moves your belly.  Hold the breath a few seconds, then release it, allowing the tension to leave with the breath.

3.  Clean the house. Cleaning the house is another way to get your mind off the writing project for awhile.  You heard me correctly. I said cleaning as in doing the dishes, vacuuming, dusting, laundry or clearing the clutter out of a closet.  Distracting yourself is the key here but be careful as cleaning can also be used as an avoidance tactic that keeps you from your writing.

4.  Change your writing environment.  Another way to get your mind off your project for awhile is to rearrange your workspace by moving your desk or bookshelf to another wall, putting different colored drapes on the windows, or hanging new pictures. You can also change locations by taking your laptop into the dining or living room to work, or by making trips to the local coffee shop, library, or the neighborhood park to do your writing.

5. Watch an inspiring movie. Sometimes watching a movie that inspires you or makes you feel good all over, can help refresh your mind and spark new ideas.  The movie I watch when I need to rejuvenate my creative flow is “Finding Forrester” with Sean Connery.  It’s about a writer and his mentor.  After watching this movie, I always find myself pumped up with fresh inspiration and encouragement, ready to head back to the laptop.

Whether you use one of the techniques above, or something else, do yourself a favor and take time off.  Give yourself permission to take a mental health day and not think about your writing project.  Be adventurous, find what works for you, and do it. Happy writing!

Until next time,

Walk in beauty, write life with passion!