As a first year associate marriage and family therapist, I am currently exploring and reconstructing what self-care means to me. In attempting to shed self-criticism and perfectionism, I have begun to create the first bits and pieces of safety within myself, allowing me to confront my lack of intentionality in taking care of myself. Engaging in the creation of a comfort journal, in which I was invited to reflect on the presence of peace and comfort in my life, provided me with the opportunity to move with the intentionality that I sought throughout the day.

Initially, the artmaking process felt too big to hold on my own. I noticed the perfectionistic part of myself immediately assume its position, reacting with discomfort at questions such as “What are some things that you can do to bring yourself comfort in your everyday life?” I was not sure how to respond to the question, so I began to create. As I continued to move my hands and slowly quiet the voice of doubt and criticism, I welcomed play and curiosity within the creative process. Soon, I moved with an open-mindedness and found warmth and joy in the art I had created.  

Dedicating time and space for myself through creative play and reflection took me to a familiar space of safety, joy, and curiosity that was beginning to close its doors after weeks of being left unvisited. Offering myself the creative tools that I encourage my clients to use everyday served as a reminder of the importance of giving myself the kindness, patience, and understanding that I approach others with. As I carry my bits of comfort with me through the journal I created, I fill myself with the knowledge that I hold the power to navigate moments of discomfort and find my way back to safety and community.