Gency Brown

Hello everyone. I haven’t been around the cabin much this week. The annual International Western Music Association convention is being held here in Albuquerque. Except for a couple of productive writing hours in the morning, I’m at the venue daily enjoying the music, poetry and written word from members that share my love of the West. I am a fan of music of all kinds, but over the past thirteen years, Western Music has been the primary focus of my musical interests.

How, you ask, can I take time away from my writing? Writers, as with most creative people, sometimes need to take a break like this to rest and recharge. You look at that computer screen or paper and pen for so long they become a blur, clouded by the fog of fatigue that fills your brain.

Several writer’s conferences now offer workshops on a writer’s health and wellbeing. Topics include everything from having the right chair to support your back to scheduling breaks to stand and stretch. Many suggest yoga or meditation. Some encourage a walk to enjoy nature. These ideas and others are aimed at caring for your body and resetting creativity, so you go back to work revitalized.

For me, an afternoon movie, an art show, or an evening live concert help me find the words to finish a scene. Maybe it’s seeing or listening to other’s creativity that inspires me. I can’t wait to get back to my characters and finish their stories.

I encourage you to take a look at your writing habits. Are you taking better care of some of your characters than you do yourself? Do you lock yourself in your workspace for hours on end, only coming out for food and drink? Okay, I know that works for some, but look at how you feel when you finish for the day. If the first thing you do is reach for your lower back while turning your head from side to side on a tight neck, maybe you should have taken a break or two. Everyone is different, and you will find what works for you.