Decolonize the Mind

10+ minutes

Materials:

• Pencil

• Paper

• A cup of water

• Any other available materials you would like to explore

We are often taught that there is a right way and a wrong way to do things. These expectations can be influenced by the roles we play and intensified by our intersecting identities.

Each time we prioritize doing something the “right” way, we may give up some of our autonomy and power.

The most effective way forward is often found within. The answers we seek can emerge through curiosity, willingness, and imagination.

Step 1

Use the materials to create something in a way you have never used them before.

There are no rules—allow yourself to experiment, explore, and follow your curiosity.

Step 2

When you are finished, give your creation a name or title.

Reflect on your experience:

• How does your body feel now compared with before you started?

• What shift did you notice inside your body?

• What are these physical sensations telling you?

• Do you feel calm or content? Uncomfortable? Scared?

• If you gave your body the microphone, what would it say?

• In what ways did you experiment and explore?

• How did you use your imagination?

• How did you move through moments of frustration or discomfort?

• What did your self-talk sound like?

• What did you create?

• Is there a connection between how you feel and what you created?

• Does your finished piece feel good enough to you?

• What thoughts related to perfectionism might you challenge?