How Creative Expression in Music and Art Can Help a Person Grow and Become More Self-Aware

Throughout life, individuals seek ways to understand and express themselves more deeply. Creative expression, whether through music, art, or other forms, can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-discovery. The journey into the creative tunnel, guided by the light of self-expression, can lead to profound insights and transformation. This article explores the benefits of creative expression, drawing from personal experiences and insights on how expressing oneself can foster self-awareness and growth.

Expressing Ourselves to Grow

From a young age, we are taught the importance of self-expression. Yet, as we grow older, this innate ability to express our thoughts, feelings, and emotions might get stifled. Expressing ourselves through various mediums, such as music and art, is not just a form of creative outlet; it is a journey of self-discovery that can lead to significant personal growth.

Personal Experience: Learning to Play Guitar

At the age of 54, I embarked on a new journey by teaching myself how to play the guitar. Initially, I was motivated to learn a few key songs that held personal significance. As I delved deeper into the music, I found that creating music with my own hands was incredibly therapeutic. This realization led me to further explore the benefits of music in my daily life.

Music and Caregiving

Shortly after starting to learn the guitar, I faced a significant life change: I became a full-time caregiver for my aging mother. Over the course of five years, the guitar became my sanctuary during this challenging period. Holding the guitar in my lap, I could disconnect from distress, recollect my thoughts, and recreate music that opened my mind and heart.

Expressing Emotions for Self-Awareness

Expressing oneself through creative outlets is not just about making music or creating art; it is about understanding who we are and why we are here. One of the most crucial aspects of creative expression is its ability to help us become more self-aware. By delving into our innermost thoughts and emotions, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our purpose.

Using Martial Arts to Enhance Music Skills

To improve my music skills, I turned to martial arts. One of my guitar students introduced me to the martial art of Shim Gum Do, or The Mind Sword Path. This blend of kata disciplines and meditation helped me overcome physical and mental challenges, such as short fingers and episodes of numbness.

Promoting Balance and Creativity

Through Shim Gum Do, I blended physical movement with meditation, creating a unique experience that improved both my martial arts and music skills. The time signatures in music were akin to the katas in martial arts, allowing me to unify the concepts and enhance my overall performance. My skills and confidence improved, leading to a more unified and powerful approach to both music and martial arts.

Mantras and Mindset

The practice of Shim Gum Do emphasized certain mantras, such as "Be silent, be strong, know and dare". These principles can be applied to any aspect of life, including the creation of powerful music. The mind sword mentality helps in blending the creation of music with the cultivation of inner strength and clarity.

Conclusion

Engaging in creative expression can be a transformative journey that leads to self-discovery and personal growth. Whether through music, art, or other creative outlets, expressing ourselves can help us better understand who we are, why we are here, and how to live more fulfilling lives. By embracing the power of creative expression, we can unlock new levels of self-awareness and improve our overall well-being.

Keywords: creative expression, emotional expression, self-awareness