3 Tips for Finding Inner Renewal

Dear Fellow Readers and Writers,

This has been an unconventional year for sure. As 2021 draws to a close, I want to thank the over forty wonderful romance authors I have interviewed in 2020. I encourage everyone to check out their romances when looking for something new to read. And, look forward to seeing more amazing author interviews in the new year!

For today, I wish you all peace and joy and pray we will be refreshed, renewed, and ready for what I hope is a fantastic – and safe and healthy – 2021!

Here are three tips for finding inner renewal:

Here are some ways that I renew myself. They are also helpful in addressing writer’s block.

Photo by Janko Ferlic courtesy Unsplash



Happy Ending Story Imagery

Writers know this one well. Lie back and tell yourself a story with a happy ending. It can be from a movie or book you loved. It can be from a childhood fairy tale. It can be unique to you and the moment. Picture it in all the sensory detail you can.

Photo by Steve Johnson courtesy Unsplash



Creating a Freeform Work of Art

Pick up some markers, a pencil, or if you have them watercolors or finger paints. Choose colors that you like. Make lines and shapes across the paper with no goal other than enjoying seeing what will happen. When you are done discard it or save it as you wish.

I taught art for many years. And what I learned is that the act of creating is what is important — not the finished product. Inner renewal happens when you let your hand move freely and the shapes, textures, colors, and scents meld into a moment in time.

Photo by Stories courtesy Unsplash



Breathing in the World

Inner renewal requires us to involve our bodies. Our breath and our sense of smell are uniquely tied together. Every so often stop what you are doing and take several deep breaths. If you can take those breaths outside where you can inhale the scents of nature. If that is not possible, light a scented candle or infuse the air with an essential oil or aromatic fruit such as a lemon or orange.

Reading for Renewal

Here are some books that I have found helpful when I am under stress.

The Little Book of Gratitude by Robert A. Emmons

Surprisingly, showing gratitude to others and for the things that give us pleasure can heal stress and make us more optimistic.

The No Worries Workbook by Molly Burford

This book is full of fun, creative ways to relieve stress and find the positives in your life.

And last, but far from the least, I find reading a romance, especially an old favorite, is a perfect stress reliever. Because no matter what worrisome things happen to the main characters, you know there will be a happy ending.

Do you have any special ways of renewing yourself?



I welcome your thoughts and comments.

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