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Self care and the Journal

 We often have great plans for setting intentions and incorporating new practices - but how do we bring them into our lives?

Several years ago during an EFT 'Tapping' session, the leader shared that she likes talking time to meditate and enjoy her coffee in the morning, (morning cafe!) After she decided not to set appointments early, to dedicate that time for herself, she realized she'd gotten busier! 

Color Splash calendar in my journal

A decade ago, as I completed my Intentional Creativity teacher training, I thought of using splashes of color on a journal spread, to plan offerings and set goals. One idea that went on this early page, 'Linda/ Arts Alive' referred to a show on our local TV channel - where I'd been a guest with my music.  

It didn't happen right away, as I found Linda had retired! But a couple of years later, I saw the host of a similar arts and community show. During our chat, Howie invited me to be his guest, and they filmed a lovely 'harp and art' interview!! 

I enjoy doing an occasional calendar spread with my goals, events and self care splashed about, "popcorn" style. This can be a good way to heart-storm, and activate those plans.  

Some are specific to the month or quarter, while others are ongoing (hosting monthly Red Thread Circles, painting, blogging) or self care goals. 

Pockets can be folded from paper or colorful envelopes, and glued on a page.  These are a great way to hold ideas and affirmations - which can be posted for awhile (on the fridge, with magnets), then tucked away again. 

It helps me to see something I'm working on - rotating them helps keep ideas fresh! (The card holder was cut down from chocolate packaging and collaged)

Soul collage and affirmation cards on the fridge

I generally begin a new Juju Journal when I embark on a project. I've been gathering notes on the cards and SoulCollage® process in both a composition book and 3 ring binder, and plan to make a calendar Collar Splash page soon. 

How do you Weave more time for self care into your schedule and life? 

How do you plot steps of a project?

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Comments

  1. Linda Reed Friedman, ASIDOctober 10, 2025 at 5:04 AM

    I love the early am time, alone. Meditate, write and be grateful

    ReplyDelete
  2. TamaraOctober 10, 2025 at 5:27 AM

    Morning coffee is always a great idea — I like your approach of using that time to pause and refocus. Your “Color Splash” idea sounds so creative and fun!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Heart Song DreamsOctober 10, 2025 at 5:54 AM

      Isn't it? (Though I alternate coffee with tea!)
      Thank you - I'm thinking of using a big piece of paper on the fridge for my next one!
      Nadya

      Delete
  3. Jeanine ByersOctober 11, 2025 at 1:14 AM

    I usually write the steps of a new project in an outline which I keep in a Google doc. Sometimes it starts on a scrap piece of paper but then I try to get it into a doc so I can be sure not to misplace it. I am still working on making sure that even if I am busy with a project, that I take enough time for self-care. I tend to go all in and get carried away, but I'm getting better at carving out time for pleasure and self-care.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Heart Song DreamsOctober 11, 2025 at 7:52 PM

      That's a good combination, Jeanine - on paper and then into a doc!
      Your commitment to self care and tour goals seems nicely balanced
      Nadya

      Delete

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