This meditation is an invitation for artists to remember their why.
Sometimes our love for our art can get lost in the midst of all the demands of our craft.
Recalling a powerful memory helps us remember the inspiration that is still within us.
Guided imagery can be a powerful experience that sometimes evokes strong feelings.
This is natural,
But feel free to take a break if you need.
Let's give it a try.
Take a moment to find a comfortable position,
Whether sitting or lying down.
If you are sitting,
Take a moment to get grounded,
Finding the sitz bones on your seat,
Your feet flat on the floor,
And resting your hands gently above your knees.
If you are lying down,
Really feel the weight of the body sinking into the surface.
You can close your eyes if you'd like,
Or simply lower your gaze.
Invite your body to relax,
Checking for any areas of tension,
And softening those areas,
Perhaps by sending a soothing breath to that part of the body.
Take your time to settle in and allow the body to relax here.
As you're ready,
Gently shifting your attention to your breath,
Simply becoming aware of your body breathing.
No need to do anything special with the breath,
Just breathing naturally.
Take your time.
Now recall a powerful artistic memory,
One that deeply affected you and stands out in your life.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,
One that moves you and energizes you just to recall it.
Perhaps it was a performance you loved,
A teacher or family member who encouraged you,
Or your deep desire to make your own art.
Choose a memory that you cannot imagine living without.
As you reflect,
Check in with the body.
How do you feel?
Energized,
Joyful,
Peaceful,
Or any other feelings that are coming up?
See if you can note where in the body you feel these.
As you are ready,
Gently bring your reflection into the present moment.
What do you dream of creating as an artist now in your life?
Allow yourself to be inspired by your memory and emboldened by your strong desire to share your craft with others.
What is it that you would like to offer them?
We know that life is impermanent.
What is it that you want to offer the world in your time here?
Taking one final moment to sit in this space of generosity,
Knowing that you have a beautiful gift to share with others.
And then slowly,
As you are ready,
Gently releasing the practice.
Perhaps taking one last deep cleansing breath.
Opening your eyes if they've been closed.
And returning your awareness to the space around you.
Know that you can remember your why anytime you need to recall your deep desire to create and share your art with others.
It's always within you.
Thank you so much for your practice.
Until next time.