In The Zone: The Intersection of Comfort & Creativity
Have you watched a Pixar movie? Did you ever find yourself crying during a Pixar movie? I definitely have, and it's completely okay. Our tears have a purpose. Pixar movies, and all Disney animation movies, have a unique way of connecting with a very important part of us that needs comfort - our inner child. These stories are heartwarming, enchanting, and uplifting. With exceptional skill and originality, these movies address topics that are significant and applicable to everyone. We are drawn to these movies for a reason. Today, I'd like to highlight one movie in particular, Soul.
Disney Pixar's Soul beautifully portrays the elusive "zone" that people enter while practicing their craft. This otherworldly experience allows individuals to transcend to an elevated realm of creative fluidity, where pure creation and inspiration flow effortlessly. While the film may caution against turning our passion into an obsessive pursuit, robbing us of life's simple pleasures, let us instead focus on embracing an expanded view of "The Zone" and how our comfort level can impact its manifestation.
There is a simple, yet illusory, equation to art. The more comfortable you feel, the more creative you can be. More specifically, if you are comfortable within yourself in the present moment, you are more likely to access the part of your heart and brain where creativity thrives. Now I will admit, while I personally adhere to this equation, I am not suggesting it is the only way to tap into creativity, nor am I saying that I have always had access to my own creative zone. However, I can attest that this equation has helped me develop the healthiest relationship with creativity that I have ever had. Yes, I have been creative when I’ve pushed myself to the brink of artistic madness and fatigue. I’ve even mustered up creativity in the most arid and stressful environments. But these methods of artistic engagement were draining and fleeting. They made being creative feel more like work than play - and I don’t know about you, but I always want my art to feel like fun.
I employ many tactics to help engender comfort within myself. Journaling and moving my body are chief among them. But I’d love to learn more about your comfort and creativity. How you get in the “zone” and just how many Disney movies you’ve cried during. Share your thoughts in the comments below or on Instagram and tag me @nooked.us.
Enjoy this week’s Comfort in Conversation, Maker’s Playlist, and Cultivating Comfort activities. :)
Stay Nooked!
xoxo,
EboniJoi
Comfort In Conversation-Episode Three: Sydney True
Join me for Comfort in Conversation, a weekly interview series highlighting personal experiences. Every week, a guest is invited to answer a series of thoughtful questions and share their unique insights on how comfort has shaped their life.
This week’s guest is Sydney True (my potato)! We first met in college and we’ve become the closest of friends! Sydney is an exceptional artist and It has been a true joy to have her in my life. Listen now to hear Sydney’s perspective on art and comfort, her unwavering faith, and learn which Disney characters we are - you might be surprised! :)
Listen close and you might also hear her children in the background!
p.s Interview in three parts. The laughter and banter are off the charts for this interview so brace yourselves HA. It’s a great time! Also, the recording includes explicit language.
The Maker’s Playlist: In The Zone
In honor of Disney’s influence on this week’s blog post, I decided to curate The Maker’s Playlist with Disney songs that have inspired me the most. This playlist includes some classic Disney hits and some extraordinary cinematic composing. Take a break from “adulting” and take a listen. Enjoy :).
p.s This is but a fraction of my Disney playlist!
Bigger Than Us - Jon Batiste (SOUL)
Go The Distince - Roger Bart (Hercules)
Reflections - Lea Salonga (Mulan)
You’ve Got a Friend in Me - Randy Newman (Toy Story)
Nobody Like U - 4*TOWN (Turning Red)
Into the Unknown - Idina Menzel (Frozen II)
What Else Can I Do? - Giane Guerrero, Stephanie Beatriz (Encanto)
Life’s Incredible Again - Michael Giacchino (The Incredibles)
Ma Belle Evangeline - Jim Cummings, Terrance Blanchard (Princess & the Frog)
Try Everything - Shakira (Zootopia)
Dos Oruguitas - Sebastian Yatra (Encanto)
Show Yourself - Idina Menzel, Evan Rachel Wood (Frozen II)
Remember Me - Gael Garcia Bernal, Gabriella Flores, Libertad Garcia Fonzi (Coco)
Silenzio Bruno - Dan Romer (Luca)
Epiphany - Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross
Cultivating Comfort: A Book & Journal Club!
July Book: The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz is a powerful book that offers a new perspective on life and relationships. The agreements outlined in the book are simple but profound: be impeccable with your word, don't take anything personally, don't make assumptions, and always do your best. By following these agreements, Ruiz argues that we can create a life of happiness, love, and fulfillment. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their relationships and live a more meaningful life.
I've already read this book, and I'm looking forward to reading it again with a focus on how it can enhance our sense of comfort and belonging. While reading, let's take some time to ponder these questions.
1. Which of the four agreements do you find most challenging to follow in your own life and why?
EboniJoi: I struggle most with the agreement, don’t make assumptions. Due to my anxiety, I tend to catastrophize situations by assuming the worst possible outcome. I have this irrational belief that by expecting the worst, I'll be better emotionally prepared for it. This is an agreement that I am constantly working to break. I know ridding myself of this agreement can change my life for the better and make room for more positive thoughts.
2. How have the four agreements outlined in the book helped you to improve your relationships with comfort?
EboniJoi: Absolutely. The first time I read this book, I felt an immense sense of comfort and peace. I knew that it would change the way I navigate the world as my true self, living for myself rather than for others. I frequently revisit this book to reconnect with that feeling and remind myself that true comfort and fulfillment come from within.
3. In what ways has reading The Four Agreements changed your perspective on comfort and personal growth?
EboniJoi: Reading this book has shown me that we shape a great deal of our own discomfort by dismissing these four simple agreements. By not following these four agreements we hurt others and ourselves with our words, perpetuate our own insecurity, assume the worst, and give up before we even try. We stunt our own personal growth and do ourselves a great disservice. To adopt these agreements is to truly put your comfort and personal growth first. I hope everyone can one day find the peace that these agreements can bring to your life.
4. Have you noticed any positive changes in your overall well-being since incorporating the four agreements into your daily life?
EboniJoi: Yes. And when I feel the scales tipping in the wrong direction, I know it’s time to familiarize myself with the four agreements again.
Thank you for reading with me this month! August’s book will be announced in the next blog post!
Journal Prompt: Are you in the Zone?
Write about the last time you felt like you were in a creative “zone”. Do you think that comfort plays a role in creativity? What tactics do you utilize to bring forth your most creative self?
What Disney character are you and why?
Please take your time during this journaling session. Allow any emotions or creativity that arises while writing to come and go. It’s all a part of the process.
Activity - Let’s Get Creative!
I hope you were able to create your comfort habits list!
This week, let's tap into our creative side! Pick a creative activity to indulge in for at least an hour this week. It doesn't have to be a conventional art form such as painting or singing. You can try cooking, writing, decluttering your closet, or anything that sparks your creativity. Focus on how this activity makes you feel, and maybe invite a friend or family member to join you. Remember, this activity should be enjoyable and not add stress to your life. If you find that it's not bringing you joy, try something else. You can also break down the hour into shorter increments of 10 or 20 minutes throughout the week. Whatever fits your schedule. Have fun! :)
Share your experience/reflection/thoughts with me! Leave a comment here or tag @nooked.us in a post on instragram or threads!
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