My husband and I both enjoy playing with constraints as we get creative. These days I’ve playing with watercolors, and enjoying the constraints of limited colors in my palette. I also did a fun Sense Writing workshop with Madelyn Kent, where she uses a series of constraints to guide people through an embodied writing practice. By offering constraints, we get the experience of narrowing our scope and exploring what we can make with less.
Recently, we were reflecting on how constraints are a BIG part of how we find time together within COVID. As the parents of a 5 year old who is home ALL THE TIME, we have re-embraced saying yes to the spaces the constraints offer.
Perhaps you can relate?
It’s such a dance within constraints. I find myself going back and forth. Sometimes I embrace the moments that come, finding the playfulness in it, and connect. Other times, I am resistant because of the brevity and chance for interruption, and turn away. Both responses make sense. And there is some choice in it.
When I take care of myself, I find it easier to lean into the accepting constraints of COVID. That also has constraints – there are less places we can go, and less time to ourselves. These days I’m carving out time for a brief morning yoga practice to drop into myself before I start the day with my family, and play time in my art studio at night.
How are you navigating the constraints of COVID?