3 Ways Art Journaling Enriches Your Life
CREATIVE JOURNALS GIVE US THE ABILITY TO EXPLORE OUR OWN THOUGHTS, PLANS AND DOCUMENT OUR LIVES IN A MORE VISUAL WAY.
1. Reflection
When I was young I was obsessed with lists, documenting and the tracking of everything. You might remember those cute little diaries that had the little lock and key? Well, if not, then you're a baby and I feel old!
Anyway, I had one and used it faithfully to write down each and everything I wore to school in seventh grade and when it was full I made my own little "clothes book" to cover my eighth grade year. Insane, right?
When I went off to college, my mom and dad moved so they boxed up all my stuff and, much later, I was going through the boxes and found my little book among other journals I had kept from my youth.
I thought it was so funny reading through it. Would you believe I still have it? Want a peek? Click HERE! Apparently stick pin jewelry was a thing back then!
While I am not sure what my younger self was thinking when she felt the need to list everything she wore to school during eighth grade, it was interesting to look at it as an adult and reflect on it.
My journals changed once I became an adult and in my thirties, I discovered "art" journaling and I have never looked back.
“Keeping an art journal has enabled me to reflect back on my story. The stages of my life are captured on those pages in a way more compelling to me than by words alone.”
2. Experimentation
Ah, experimentation! What better way to explore new techniques, test out new art supplies and play than in your art journal? There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to playing and experimenting, so take advantage of that freedom and allow your skills to develop while discovering your own personal style.
3. Builds Confidence
If I shared pages from one of my first art journals, I am certain you would notice a huge difference in my creative abilities. My life is far more enriched by the confidence I have gained over the years through playing, testing and practice. You know that feeling you get when you have created something you absolutely LOVE? Did it boost your confidence? Art journaling is therapeutic, gives you a sense of accomplishment and provides enjoyment -- all confidence builders!
My Biggest Challenge
My biggest challenge when I began art journaling was over-thinking the process. I am so neat and organized in so many areas of my life that I brought that approach to art journaling and it just didn't work for me. Once I began to loosen up and relax and just allow the pages to evolve without much forethought is when I truly began to enjoy art journaling.
Do you keep a visual/art journal? If yes, in what ways has journaling enriched your life?
I look forward to hearing from you!
Have a blessed day!
Roben-Marie
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Photos by Rachel Estrada Photography.