discipline

photo credit here

Discipline. Training. Work. Struggle. Exercise. Routine. Repetition. Craft. Method. System.

What words come to mind when you are following a "discipline?" I am deep into a work of art, under the brush to complete a project. Are you knee deep in a discipline?

I would love to take a day to just frolic and dance in the garden with all the birds.

posture

A just for fun exercise, "loosening up my posture" for where you hang your hat

As an artist, much of what I do requires a method, but then again, to allow room for letting go is a huge bonus. Just the act of each stroke of the brush takes on a sort of sun salutation for me, an exercise of sorts. With each work, I analyze my posture, I breathe, I huff and I exhale out with each jab of the brush. Did you ever stop to analyze how posturing can affect the outcome of your day.

Sit up or stand up straight, devote each inhale as one part inspiration and the exhale as the release of what you are doing, the expression. Are you aware of your posture, did I inspire you to straighten up? I know I tell my kids to take note of their posture each day, why should I not include you too.

civility

Monday morning - back to civilities of life. When I am painting, I strive for a certain civility in my work. There must be a certain politeness, a modicum of respect and an air of gentility. There is something nice about finding that in my work that sets me straight with purpose. My work brings a polite start to my day, along with a fresh cup of morning coffee in my blue and white porcelain mug.

What sort of civility or manner makes your day more well-behaved?