We've forgotten how to simply enjoy activities without turning them into a side hustle or productivity metric. In this heartfelt conversation with licensed therapist and "resident crafter" Kaylee Finley, we explore how creative hobbies provide essential nourishment for our mental health and authentic self-expression.

Kaylee shares a profound perspective on why creative pursuits matter beyond their output: "When we engage in fiber arts, we're participating in historic traditions tens of thousands of years old. You're not only making art for your soul and future generations, you're embodying the work of your ancestors." This connection to past, present and future through creativity helps anchor our identity beyond professional roles or relationships.

The discussion delves into why many adults resist playful activities despite their therapeutic benefits. Our achievement-oriented culture conditions us to feel guilty about "unproductive" time, leading to a disconnection from our playful inner child. Even in therapy settings, clients often resist playful regulation techniques until experiencing their effectiveness firsthand. Kaylee emphasizes that creative flow states naturally process emotions our conscious mind might avoid, making hobbies powerful tools for emotional regulation.

For those feeling disconnected from creativity, Kaylee suggests starting with activities you enjoyed as a child—whether coloring, friendship bracelets, or finger painting. The key is approaching these activities with curiosity rather than perfectionism. As she reminds us through her own baking mishaps, even experienced crafters face frustration, but working through these moments teaches valuable life lessons about persistence and acceptance.

Ready to reclaim your right to creative joy? Try reconnecting with a childhood hobby this week and give yourself permission to make a mess without worrying about the cleanup. Your mental health will thank you.

If you would like to learn more about Kaylee and the work she does visit her at: www.risetherapycenter.com/kaylee

You can also find her on IG @brighterskiescounseling

Thank you for tuning into And Still WE Rise! If you would like to learn more about me or the work our practice is doing, feel free to follow us on Instagram at:

@atltherapygirl and @risetherapycenter

Or check us out at www.risetherapycenter.com

Disclaimer: And Still We Rise is meant to provide perspective and meaningful conversations around mental health topics. It is not meant to provide specific therapeutic advise to individuals. If anything in these podcasts resonates, ASWR recommends consulting with your individual therapist or seeking a referral from your primary care physician.