Anxiety can be a relentless and unforgiving companion. As someone who lives with generalized anxiety disorder, I know firsthand how it feels to be ensnared in a constant cycle of worry and tension. And yet, there's a sanctuary I find, a place where anxiety's grip loosens, and tranquility takes its place: the process of creation.
A Refuge in Art
The act of creating art, specifically self-portraits, is more than just a hobby for me. It's a form of therapy, a way to ground myself in the present moment, away from the turmoil of anxious thoughts.
This realization struck me profoundly after taking a short break from my routine of self-portraiture. My recent trips and other commitments had consumed my time, and anxiety had started to creep back in, building up day by day.
Sony a7riii | Velvet 56 | f/2.8 | 1/100 |500
The Healing Power of the Process
I returned to my yard and woods one morning, with a camera and tripod in hand, feeling the urge to create. The results were nothing spectacular, but the process itself was magical. As I navigated through the shoot, I felt a sense of calm descending upon me, a grounding effect that transcended mere distraction.
It's the intimate connection with nature, the familiar scents and sounds, the interplay between light and shadow, and the personal reflection in each frame that soothes me. The very act of creating connects me to something profound and timeless, allowing me to step out of my anxious mind and into a space of peace and clarity.
This isn't about escaping the complexities of life. It's about engaging with life in a way that's mindful, connected, and present.
More Than Just Pictures
The photographs themselves are but a fragment of what this journey represents. It's the metamorphosis that happens in front of and behind the lens that holds true value. Each click is a meditation, a moment of stillness in a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming. Each click is a portal to another world.
For those who suffer from anxiety or even those who are simply seeking a deeper connection with themselves, embracing a creative process might be a path worth exploring. It doesn't have to be photography; it can be painting, writing, gardening, or any form of expression that resonates with you.
Sony a7riii | Velvet 56 | f/2.8 | 1/100 |500
A Path to Authenticity
I share this not just as an artist but as a human who has found a unique path to authenticity and mindfulness. It's a reminder that sometimes the benefits of something aren't fully realized until we step away from it and then return with fresh eyes and an open heart.
If you find yourself caught in the tendrils of anxiety or simply wish to discover a new way to connect with your inner self, consider embracing the process of creation. It might just reveal a hidden sanctuary within you, where peace and contentment reside.
*Self-portraits were made with my Lensbaby Velvet 56. As a Lensbaby Ambassador I can you 10% on your purchases with the code wsharon at checkout. Have a question? Reach out through the comments or email!