Studio Notes: Finding Flow Again

After many flare-ups, post-gig recovery, and a spell of low energy and mood, I’ve been in much need of finding my flow again. I’ll be honest — I still struggle to juggle my music life and art life, and when one takes centre stage, the other tends to fade into the background. During the lead-up to my gigs, my artistic flow seemed to vanish completely, and for a while I worried it might not come back. But slowly, quietly, it did. Learning to trust that creativity always finds its way back is something I’m still working on.

I’ve had times like this before — many times! That blank, heavy feeling where I don’t want to draw, stitch, or write, and I start to panic that the spark has gone for good. But I’ve learned that with rest, kindness, and less pressure, those feelings always soften. The creative spark might dim for a while, but it never truly goes out.

This time, what helped me find my flow again was slowing right down — colouring in, walking in nature, and spending time in galleries and exhibitions. Those slow, quiet moments with Cif helped too. Taking time to play with him, after weeks of long work hours, was exactly what I needed. I also made space to see friends again — something I’d been missing. All of these little things recharged my creative battery without me even realising it.

One thing I’ve learned is that rest is just as productive as work. Expecting to leap straight back into creating after a busy spell isn’t realistic, because creativity doesn’t work that way. It has its own rhythm. Just like the cycle of nature, creativity has quieter seasons — times to take root, gather nourishment, and regain strength before blooming again.

While this period has had its challenges (especially with my inner dialogue), I’m grateful for what it’s taught me: creativity doesn’t disappear, it just rests.

Over to you:
What helps you find your flow again after a busy or overwhelming time?