Creativity: A Path to Wellness and Self-Discovery

 In the tapestry of human existence, creativity is a vibrant thread that weaves together the colours of imagination, passion, and self-expression. It is a force that transcends boundaries, defies limitations, and has the power to heal the mind and body. This journey into the world of creativity is a path worth exploring, and for individuals on the autism spectrum, it can be a particularly transformative and liberating experience.

The Creative Connection: A Universal Language:

Creativity is not bound by language, age, or circumstance. It is a universal language that speaks to the very core of our being. Whether it's painting, writing, music, dance, or any other form of artistic expression, creativity offers a sanctuary where individuals can escape the confines of daily life and find solace in their unique perspectives.

Unlocking the Benefits of Creativity:

The benefits of embracing creativity are manifold, impacting not only mental well-being but also physical health. Here's how creativity can be a source of healing and transformation:

1. Stress Reduction: Engaging in creative activities has been shown to reduce stress levels. Whether it's the rhythmic strokes of a paintbrush, the flow of words on a page, or the harmony of music, these creative outlets can act as powerful stress relievers.

2. Enhanced Self-Expression: For individuals on the autism spectrum, who, like me, may sometimes find it challenging to convey their thoughts and emotions verbally, creativity provides an alternative means of self-expression. Art, in its myriad forms, allows individuals to communicate their inner worlds with depth and clarity.

3. Emotional Resilience: The creative process often involves navigating challenges and setbacks. This builds emotional resilience and the ability to persevere in the face of adversity, which can be especially valuable for individuals with autism.

4. Increased Self-Confidence: As one hones their creative skills and witnesses the tangible results of their efforts, self-confidence naturally grows. This newfound confidence can extend beyond the creative realm into other aspects of life.

5. A Gateway to Mindfulness: Engaging in creative activities often leads to a state of mindfulness, where individuals are fully present in the moment. This practice can be calming and grounding, offering respite from anxiety or sensory overload.

6. Sense of Achievement: Completing a creative project, whether it's a painting, a poem, or a musical composition, provides a profound sense of achievement. This feeling of accomplishment can boost self-esteem and foster a sense of purpose.

Creativity Knows No Labels:

One of the remarkable aspects of creativity is its inclusivity. It knows no labels or preconceived notions. It is a sanctuary where everyone, regardless of neurodiversity, can find refuge, meaning, and a sense of belonging. For individuals on the autism spectrum, creativity offers not only an outlet for self-expression but also a bridge to connect with others who appreciate their unique perspectives.

Embrace Your Creative Journey

In embracing creativity, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. It is a journey that allows us to celebrate our differences, harness our strengths, and find beauty in the tapestry of our lives. So, whether you're painting a canvas, composing a symphony, writing a story, or engaging in any form of creative expression, remember that you are not alone on this journey. Your creativity has the power to transform not only your own life but also the lives of those fortunate enough to witness your artistic journey. In creativity, we find healing, connection, and a profound sense of well-being.

Salad Days 2.0

5 years ago today (a Saturday if I remember right) I was sat on my bed, guitar in hand, trying to figure out how to use a four track recorder. I had the house to myself for a few hours and I'd promised to record a demo to show the people I worked with what kind of musician I was. This seemed like a good idea until I realised that I actually had no idea how to record it properly. I had some very basic equipment, a karaoke microphone from Poundstretcher, a second hand set of bongo drums I bought from the local market which were (actually still are come to think of it) badly in need of repair, an acoustic guitar that I was given for my 17th birthday and a hired Tascam 4-Track recorder which recorded on to standard cassette tapes.
I put on Bill Bailey's Bewilderness for background noise and got to work. First I had to learn how the recorder worked (not that easy without a manual). Second I had to learn how to do overdubs, and also how long it takes to do overdubs if you don't know what you're doing. After about an hour I was ready to record some songs. This was when I learned that it really helps to decide what you want to record before you start recording. I chose 5 of my favourite songs (that seemed easy to play) and finally pressed record. Take 1 didn't go so well. Lesson 4: turn on the microphone if you actually want to record anything except silence. Also, it helps if the microphone isn't muffled by bedsheets. I remedied this by resting the microphone on top of a milk crate (it made sense at the time). Take 2 went better, well sort of, it recorded at least. Lesson 5: microphones record everything, including the sound of Bill Bailey in the background.

I recorded 5 songs that day, only 4 were complete, I didn't have time to record the vocals on a cover of Babyshambles' I Love You (But You're Green). The other 4 songs were: Perfect Day by Lou Reed, Sunday Morning by The Velvet Underground, Norwegian Wood by The Beatles and I Feel Fine by The Beatles. I wanted to record more, including an original song called Dove and a cover of Albion, but there was no time and the 4-track had to be returned.

Salad Days took about 6 hours to record, everything took multiple takes as I missed my cue or played out of time and had to start over countless times. Still it was worth it to have something to prove that I really was a musician (to myself as much as to other people). I had just started writing the songs for the original version of Bletchley and I needed something to encourage me to finish them. They got finished eventually but that's another story.

Fast forward 5 years and I'm sat in another bedroom typing this next to a different guitar and a 4-track recorder. Over the next few hours I will be recording a new version of Salad Days. Hopefully it won't take as long as last time and I can get it finished and online by Sunday. Times have changed, now I've got better equipment (did I mention that I used a milk crate as a mic stand? Yeah, money was tight at the time.) and I know much more about recording than I did back then, so it should be much easier this time. The plan is to record the same songs but there may be some additions if the mood takes me.

That's the end of this ramble.

Til next time,

Barnaby J. Tremayne.