Rain has arrived after many weeks of burning sun and all of nature is rejoicing.

Just two days ago, I watched a goanna climb right into our bird bath to cool off.

Now as I look outside my studio window, the trees seem to be dancing in a gentle breeze soaking in every drop of rain and distant headlands are engulfed in hazy white.

We’re thankful for the rain. I send up a silent prayer for the dry, parched places in this mighty land, growing weary in waiting. This is a land of extremes and unpredictable rhythms.

Elusive rhythms…we dance to them, sing with them, close our eyes to them.

We are drawn to them, they are hypnotic.

Perhaps there is a reason for this.

I think of the creative rhythms I have found. The daily rituals that yield a slow and steady harvest. Waking, writing, meditating, tapping. Focused time of art- making, singing after lunch. These are the rhythms that keep my creativity flowing.

Another rainy day ~in contrast to the hot sunny weather of the past few weeks

Like threads woven through the fabric of my days, rhythms replace tightly held to-do lists.

Rhythms bring a sense of clarity and allow for deeper work.

It’s been interesting to notice how these rhythms have formed over the years. My thinking, writing and ‘new ideas’ time flow on from my morning pages of freehand writing. Singing recharges my energy after lunch, allowing for an extra productive, creative boost in the afternoon.

Just like the tides ebb and flow, I’ve found consistent rhythms through experimentation and by paying attention to the energy needed for particular activities.

Added to this, I’m finding it so helpful to live more attuned to the seasons, leaning into the rhythms of the new growth of spring, full creative expression in summer, time for reflection in autumn and rest in winter.

Perhaps the biggest lesson I have learnt so far though is to show myself compassion when my rhythms are interrupted.

Nature’s rhythms~ sunrise at MacMasters Beach

Here are some ideas to help you find your Creative Rhythm:

Set a Ritual to Start Creative Sessions

Rituals create a mental cue that signals your brain it’s time to shift into a creative state. Begin each session with a simple activity, like lighting a candle, journaling, or mindful breathing.

Work in Time Blocks (Creative Sprints)

Breaking work into focused time blocks prevents fatigue and promotes flow.

Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break) or create longer creative sprints (e.g., 45 minutes of work, 15 minutes of rest). Experiment to find the block length that best supports your creative energy.

Identify Peak Creative Times

Notice when you naturally feel most energized and inspired—morning, afternoon, or night—and schedule your most challenging creative tasks during those hours.

Incorporate Rhythmic Breaks

Just like music needs pauses, creativity needs moments of rest to avoid burnout and allow ideas to incubate. Take regular breaks that involve movement (e.g., a short walk) or relaxation (e.g., deep breathing or a cup of tea). Schedule longer breaks, such as a half-day off each week or a creative retreat every few months.

Alternate Between Different Types of Tasks

Switching between tasks that require different types of thinking keeps your mind fresh and prevents monotony. Alternate between high-focus tasks (e.g., detailed painting or writing) and more relaxed ones (e.g., brainstorming or organizing materials).

Try pairing creative tasks with routine ones (e.g., listening to inspiring podcasts while tidying up your workspace).

Use Constraints to Foster Flow

Constraints provide structure and prevent overthinking, allowing for smoother creative momentum.

Set small goals for each session, such as “create three thumbnail sketches” or “write 300 words.”

Use limited tools or a restricted colour palette to simplify decision-making and enhance focus.

Reflect and Refine Your Rhythm

Reflection helps you notice what’s working and what isn’t, so you can fine-tune your process.

At the end of each week, review what you created, when you felt most productive, and what disrupted your rhythm.

Make adjustments, such as changing your time blocks or adding new rituals.

Embrace Imperfection

Creativity isn’t about perfect rhythm ( a lesson that I’m still learning)—it’s about finding a rhythm that works for you. Some days will be highly productive, while others may require more rest or play. It’s important to embrace this natural flow and to show compassion towards ourselves (and others) if our rhythm is interrupted.

Wishing you a creatively rhythmic year ahead !! 🌿 ✨

Jan 9 Finding Creative Rhythm