Art to Navigate the Journey • by Chrysti Hydeck

Perhaps the most powerful, universal thing I have learned in my lifetime is this: you cannot necessarily change what it is that happens to you. Nor can you choose what disorders, diseases, or health problems plague you. You most certainly cannot change the actions of others — but you CAN change how you react, respond, and deal with whatever that proverbial “it” may be. And if you just let it … Art can help you navigate that journey … at least it does for me.

A Sense of Stability
I’m not a doctor. Heck, I don’t even play one on TV. I am, however, a woman who has lived with and managed multiple disorders for most of my life. Two of those, Tourette’s Syndrome and Bipolar Disorder, have had a major impact on my life. One made me a target for other people’s cruelty, and the other affects nearly every thought that runs through my mind. Because of Tourette’s Syndrome, I’ve never once known what it is like to be completely still … not even for a moment. However, within creating I have found both solace and rest. In art, I discovered an outlet, a healthy outlet for me to channel all of that frantic energy that stems from these disorders. When children teased me and teachers made a spectacle out of me — I instinctively turned to creating collages on my bedroom walls. I filled notebook after notebook up with doodles, quotations, colors, and lyrics. I turned to art and to music, and I lost myself within the pages of novels. Creativity saved me.

Because of Manic Depression, I have found myself at extreme highs and devastating lows within my lifetime. Nearly every emotion I experience is amplified and I need a way to release that intensity to remain stable. Art gives me just that — some sense of stability. The lulling strokes of a paintbrush or the vibrancy of color alone can change my thought patterns. Distressing a canvas or a block of wood helps me release anger. Photography continually offers me a different perspective, and it saves me, daily.

Wonderfully Constructive
Today, I don’t feel as if I have one specific story to tell, as my story is an ongoing one. However, there are universal truths that I feel apply to each of us. No matter what issues we deal with, art is a wonderfully constructive way to deal with outside influences that can be destructive. Creativity offers an almost magical way to transform the things that can potentially be negative to me. Not only does art help to clear my oh-so-cluttered mind, it also gives me focus and brings me joy. That alone, is priceless.

To learn more about Chrysti Hydeck, visit alwayschrysti.com and christyhydeck.com.

Comments

[Patty O'Malley]

Thank you for sharing such a personal story. Art truly does release negative thoughts and create positive feelings. I struggle with anxiety at times, so creating to me is a wonderful outlet. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Pam Carriker]

Chrysti you're an amazing person without the background story and when we hear about your struggles and how you've conquered them it shows your true strength and gives us all hope and courage to face life's trials. Proud to be your friend:-)
xoxo
Pam

[Donna Cook]

Love you loads, Chrysti! Everyone needs to learn that lesson about "what you can and cannot control". And learn the lesson to be kind to people who are different from oneself. As a teacher I really tried to show compassion to all my students, being merely human, I know I fell short, at times. I am sorry that your experience was not positive. But glad you have found comfort in your art. You remind me to try to make the world a better place, one day and one person at a time. You are an inspiration for all of us! Thanks Chrysti for sharing your gifts of creativity, compassion and giving.

[diane cook]

Chrysti....I knew of your disorders, but don't truly KNOW them. I can only imagine the world you have built and continue to build to manage to live peacefully within. Art is a wonderful part of this world. I am so thankful you have it.
I personally know I have enjoyed your photography, and it truly has been a blessing to be involved in this artful part of your life~ever so small, and as far away as I am from you (in person). Amazing how we can relate in that way without even knowing each other. What a blessing.....
Thank you for sharing your story with the rest of the world. It is a good one.

[Eden]

My dear Chrysti...if our proximity was such, I would slip my arm around your shoulder, press my forehead to yours and say: "Dear Spirit...You are My Hero!" but alas, our proximity being what it is, I shall kiss the wind with a wish, a wish for every golden moment of every golden hour to alight your lashes and forever and always glow bright and beautiful inside your soulful eyes. Blessings...Eden

[Chrysti]

Thank you all so very much, I'm touched!