After my sister passed last June, I wasn’t able to journal. I just didn’t have any words, which is unusual for this word person. But I knew how healing my journal could be, so I started playing with colors and shapes to process all that I was feeling in my physical, emotional, mental and spiritual bodies. Coloring like a little kid and jotting down this simple phrase helped me anchor into the NOW.
Of course my doodle overflows with my sister’s favorite color, purple. It’s one of the ways I feel her spirit. After coloring the circle, I felt called to add the dotted pattern, which was oh, so soothing to my soul.
This container technique, which I learned years ago from Anne-Marie Jobin at newcreativejournaling.com, didn’t take a lot of energy at a time when I had none, but it made a huge difference to simply acknowledge my sadness AND the importance of living in the moment. I was learning how to let sadness and joy live side-by-side.
If you’re experiencing any kind of loss — death of a loved one or pet, the end of a relationship or coveted career, or empty nest, to name a few of life’s difficult transitions — then please do try this exercise on. May it bring you a little relief and healing. xo
Such a great idea! Sometimes colors, patterns, and shapes speak even louder than words, along with moving your hand so freely across the paper. I've lost a brother, my job, and my health in the last few years and I have used journaling, poetry, dance and qigong, and more lately art to help me regain my equilibrium. This exercise, in its simplicity, can be very grounding, soothing, and insightful, I'm sure. Thank you 🙏🏼