Setting intentions

It is that time of the year again when many of us think about setting goals and making positive changes in our lives.

Setting resolutions for the new year is great, but from my experience, they don’t always work!

Setting intentions can be a different approach: an intention is like the promise of a flower contained in a seed. An intention can be found in our heart and blossom with time.

When we decide on an intention, we combine what is in our hearts and our minds. This helps us focus and harmonise the body and mind. Creativity helps the connection and guides us toward living in alignment with our real selves.

Setting an intention is not about setting goals. When we think about setting intentions, we observe ourselves without judgment.

So how do we go about creating an intention in an Art Therapy session without overthinking it? 

  1. We start with a mindful breathing exercise to help focus on our feelings.

  2. We explore our feelings and thoughts in a creative way using art materials: for example,

    What do I want to develop in myself? How do I want to move forward?

    Maybe I want more calm or joy in my life.

    Or you might think about a quality you would like to enhance within you,

    for example, kindness, patience, or courage.

    What do you truly desire deep inside you? 

    What is the most important thing for you, right now?

  3. Use the words that came up for you in a statement.

  4. You may not come up with a statement immediately, but you may begin the dialogue between your mind and your inner wishes and desires.

  5. Phrase your intention positively and in the present tense. Foe example, rather than “I want to be less anxious” tell yourself “I am at peace” or “I am happy and healthy”. Other examples might include: “I am balanced” or, “I am grounded”.

  6. Make it short so you can remember it!

If we can become just a bit better in positive self-talk as we are in negative self-talk we would notice an enormous shift in our life. 

If you would like to deepen your awareness, or maybe you feel you “just want to be happy” and you are willing to explore what is meaningful for you, I would be honoured to guide you through this creative process.  

Call me on 0412 396 644 or email for a chat. I am looking forward to hearing from you.

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