12. Rhythm
creative self-care
Finding relaxation and meaning through rhythmic expression.
Rhythm is an essential element of life.
In nature, rhythm is responsible for all biological processes. For humans, if our bodies cannot generate it’s most fundamental rhythm—the heartbeat—we’re unable to survive.
Considering the deep healing impact of art, it should come as no surprise, that rhythm is consistently found across all art forms as well:
In music, rhythm is the primary element that creates the perception of time.
In dance, it creates a sense of balance and connection.
In poetry, it provides structure and heightens emotional response.
In design, it is a foundational element that creates visual interest.
Rhythm is recognized from birth and because of this, it has the ability to regulate and calm the nervous system. When used with self expression, rhythm will nourish the soul.
PONDER
Its important to get away from technology and closer to the human heart beat.
⎯ THOMAS BANGALTAR OF DAFT PUNK
MORNING ritual
TONING + RECTANGULAR BREATHING
This technique works to prime your nervous system for connecting to your natural rhythm.
Inhale for a count of four
Hold your breath for a count of four
Exhale slowly for a count of eight while making the sound, “Ooo”, “Ahh”, of “Voo”
Repeat this process five times in the morning, using the tone that feels most calming to you. Be mindful that your exhale is twice as long as your inhale.
TIP: Be aware of your diaphragm and relax into the rhythm of your breathing. As you become comfortable with the process of expressing yourself vocally through toning, you will naturally be able to slow down your internal rhythm, reaching a more peaceful state of being.
monthly therapeutic activity: EXPRESSION THROUGH musical ABSTRACTION
The therapeutic activity below is a simple art-making experience that is meant to be easy and fun. It can drop you into The Flow state of mind, resulting in relaxation and joy. Try not to set up expectations for what the end piece will look like. It’s in the process that you’ll receive the benefits.
Materials: Sketchbook, simple drawing tools such as (colored) pencils.
Choose a rhythmic song without words and put it on repeat.
Listen to the melody and tones in the song as you turn to a page in your sketchbook.
Without thinking about the end result, apply your pencil to the page and allow it to move in response to the rhythmic qualities of the song. You may choose to close your eyes and repeat this part of the process several times.
Layer the different elements you hear in the song on top of each other, adding color, filling in spaces, incorporating different stroke weights, etc.
Turn to an adjacent page and reflect on your experience using the prompts below:
Did this process stir up emotions? If so, which ones?
How did this experience affect your relationship to your chosen piece of music?
Did the rhythm of the music impact your body in any way? ie: your breathing, your posture, your desire to move.
How did you feel after the exercise, both mentally and physically?
Explore the impact of rhythm ⎯
LISTEN: THE RHYTHM PLAYLIST
PLAY: CREATE RHYTHM
LEARN: FORMER DAFT PUNK ARTIST shifts HIS RHYTHM
INCORPORATE: NATURE’S RHYTHMS
Create Rhythm: explore the Chrome Music Lab
From Daft Punk to Ballet: An artist’s new approach to Rhythm
Book: The Wheel of the Year, an Illustrated Guide to Nature’s Rhythms
Laina Miller is an Artist, Creative Wellness Consultant, and Social Emotional Arts Instructor. All viewpoints, activities, and insights expressed were generated from personal and professional experience and bolstered by favorite readings, teachers, and mentors. The aforementioned have been cited wherever possible. For additional support, please reach out to a trusted mental health advisor.
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