Returning from a Break: Prioritizing Art Over Rushing
After taking some much-needed time away for my mental health, I've found myself in a space of reflection and renewal. Breaks like these, though necessary, aren't just about stepping away - they're about tuning in.
Tuning into my body, my mind and what I really need to thrive. And as I return, I finally realize something powerful, something that I kept on ignoring: I don't need to rush back into the world at full speed. Instead, I can re-enter on my own terms, and for me, that means making time for my art. But most importantly also taking the time for my art.
In a society that constantly pushes us to hustle, it can feel like there's this immense pressure to dive right back into productivity as soon as we "recover". But during this break, I've learned that recovery isn't a finish line - it's an ongoing process. One that thrives in an atmosphere of patience, creativity and self-compassion. This is why, rather than forcing myself to meet arbitrary goals, I'm committing to creating space for my art.
Why Art Matters in Healing
For me, art has always been more than a hobby - it's a lifeline. When I create, I connect with parts of myself that words can't reach. I process emotions, find peace in the act of making, and give myself permission to express things I might otherwise hold in. After this mental health break, it's become even clearer how essential art is for my well-being.
Art allows me to slow down. It invites me to be present in a way that rushing through my to-do list simply doesn't. In this next chapter of my life, I want to approach everything with that same mindful presence. I've come to understand that healing isn't about getting "back to normal". It's about integrating what I've learned during the break and moving forward with intention.
Refusing to Rush Back
There's this myth that after time off, we're supposed to spring back into life with even more energy and efficiency as if rest automatically fills our tanks to full. But that's not how mental health works. Real healing is gentle, it's gradual and it requires us to honor our own pace.
In this return, I'm choosing to move slowly. I'll embrace the creative process without worrying about outcomes or deadlines. This means saying no to the urge to rush, no to the pressure to overproduce and yes to the slow and meaningful work that art encourages.
Allowing Time for Yourself (and Your Art)
If you've ever taken a mental health break, you probably understand the fear of falling behind. I've felt that too (and still do quite often, healing is a gradual process after all). But I'm starting to believe that slowing down isn't falling behind - it's actually catching up to ourselves. In a world that constantly rushes forward, making time for our inner world, our art and our healing is a radical act of self-care.
Art teaches me patience. Some days, I may not feel creative at all. Other days, I may lose hours in the flow of making - and both are okay. Both are part of the process. Wether it's writing, painting or doodling in a journal. The act of creating gives me permission to take things day by day, moment by moment.
A New Pace for a New Phase
As I move forward from this mental health break, I'm committed to giving myseld permission to continue healing. Even if that means moving slower than before. I'm choosing to prioritize my art, not because it's productive but because it's healing. And I hope that in doing so, I can show myself - and anyone reading - that we don't have to rush back into life.
We can take our time. We can prioritize what nourishes us. And for me, that's art.
So here's to creating space for what matters. Here's to slowing down. Here's to the art of living - and living with art.
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