When I was in burnout, I had to stop all activities that meant intellectual consumption. This included reading. How unfortunate for me, because it is an activity I have loved since I was a child, but I knew it was absolutely necessary for my recovery.
So I stayed that way for a couple of weeks, not doing much, but hoping that soon I would at least be able to read again, even if it was light novels.. Julia Cameron's "The Artist's Way" is not a light novel. It is a path of recovery. I picked it up because my gut whispered it to me. It said, "it is this one." And in fact, it was the only book I was able to read for a good while, which was only possible because it didn't feel like an effort, but like medicine for the soul. Julia Cameron wrote it with that intention, to help us reconnect with our inner artist (who is also our inner child). For this reason, it is designed as a programme - 12 weeks of exercises and practices, in fact - that you can do at your own pace or in a group. It has phrases in the margins for inspiration, as well as various examples to illustrate the messages.
In fact, one of the exercises that worked best for me was free writing (or journaling) to express my inner dialogue. Through this practice, I was able to recognise and give space to my inner critic: to see it, accept it, and handle it in a loving way whenever it surfaced. Such was the impact of the exercise that I never stopped writing again (which is why I always carry a notebook and pencil wherever I go). I also started taking painting classes. I've always loved art, but I never felt I was good enough to practice it. In fact, the closest I ever came was when I studied architecture for a year and dropped out because it was just torture at the time. I treated myself very badly in the process, my self-criticism on full display.
But this time, inspired by Julia's method, I set out to help myself.. I looked for a place where I could give myself the best conditions to support this dream and see it grow like a seedling. And I found it. It has been an incredible experience for many reasons: I have been patient and I have managed my self-demand (this is key according to Julia), my teacher has been a very good guide, and above all, I feel inspired and eager to create every time I start a new piece. For the first time I am enjoying the creative process as much as the result - what a joy for me and my inner child! I know Julia would be happy too.
If you are itching with curiosity, I invite you to browse Julia Cameron's world, her style is friendly, loving and inspiring, a true balm for the senses and a guide for the soul. If you've already read it, let me know what you thought of it. I'd love to read you.
Photo: Original image by Pilar Gómez Alvarez.