Create & Connect • by Britt Bravo

When I turned 40 a few years ago, I wanted to do something special to celebrate, and honestly, to prepare. For the 40 days leading up to my birthday, I created a four-part daily practice of moving, playing, reflecting, and connecting.

A 40-Day Practice
My movement usually took the form of practicing yoga, walking, or going to a dance class. I reflected by writing three “morning pages” in my journal. I connected by writing one letter a day to tell someone how he or she had made a positive impact on my life. I played in a variety of ways: crafting, baking, watching funny TV shows, spending time with the hubs, seeing friends, going to the movies, dancing, and painting cards for my connection letters. The connection piece was the richest part of my four-part practice, especially when the writing was combined with creating cards. By the end of the 40 days, I felt energized and ready for the big day. Most importantly, I felt more connected to myself, and to the people who had made me who I was after 40 years.

Energized & Happy
A year or so later, I participated in Leah Piken Kolidas’ Art Every Day Month. During the month of November, I spent time creating each day. I collaged, sewed, painted cards, cooked, and baked. By the end of the month, I felt as energized, clear, and happy as I did when I completed my move, play, reflect, connect experiment.

Having Fun & Doing Good
When I think about both experiences, the joyful thread that ties the two together was that I created things that connected me to people: cards, gifts, and food. I enjoy making things for myself, like creating a collage in my art journal, and I like doing things for other people, but there is something special, and healing, about creating and connecting. It allows me to have fun and do good.

To learn more about Britt, visit brittbravo.com and follow her on Twitter at @bbravo.