Mental Rest for Writers

Have you ever felt like the words were only just a tiptoe away from your fingertips and all in a rush they disappeared? Have you ever been all prepared to sit down and write and got interrupted just before heading to your writing cave, then once there, you had forgotten all that you planned to write? Has a great idea occurred to you in the middle of the night but you lost it because you didn't have a pen and paper handy?

 Maybe you need a bit of mental flossing.

 Meditation was popular years ago as a part of a movement initiated by those looking for renewal of their minds. Of course, mind altering drugs oftentimes went along with the experience, but it was a good idea nevertheless.

 Sit down with your legs crossed comfortably. Situate your hands and arms in a natural position so that you are not bent or stretched in a position that you will not like after a few moments.

Close your eyes and let your mind wander for a bit. There will be grocery lists, bills to pay, things at your job, kids homework, etc. that will all run through your mind. Let it play out. Then when you are ready, begin to strike down anything that comes to mind that is not about your writing. If you think, "hmm. i need to buy butter." strike it down and think, No. I am going to concentrate on my writing."

 Try this exercise for twenty mins a day before cracking those knuckles and settling in. You may find that this refreshes you and helps you focus. Also, when you go to bed at night, keep a pad and pencil handy. Sometimes this clearing  of the gray matter will force great ideas to the surface when you sleep.