Write from Your Heart

February, the month of Valentine’s Day, has its heart right in the center, just as our heart is the living center of our physical being. The heart has been called the seat of wisdom and understanding, the symbol of inner personality, or perhaps the secret abode of consciousness.

A commonly used expression in English connects the heart to the Greek goddess of memory, Mnemosyne, for we say when we have memorized something we "know it by heart."

I believe the heart has a great deal to say and much can be gained by taking the time to listen to it. The following is a writing/art project exercise I use often with my students to help them get to the heart of a matter. It can prove to be a simple yet powerful exercise that brings up emotions, feelings and insights; in fact, at times you can discover surprising answers.

This is a three-part exercise:

Write a Letter

First, I would like you to write a letter to your heart. It is a letter made up of questions. Please begin your letter by writing, "Dear Heart, there are a few questions I would like to ask you. I know you won’t mind. I am ready and willing to listen to your answers."

1. What do you secretly wish?
2. What do you most enjoy doing?
3. What is it that I do that makes you sing?
4. Among all the people in my life, who are your favorites?
5. Is there anything I can do that would add to your happiness?
6. Is there anything lying heavily on you?
7. What little treat would you enjoy?
8. Is there anything else you would like to tell me?

Thank you for your kind, truthful and prompt reply.

Love,
(Your Name)

Listen to Your Heart

Second, I want you to imagine you are your own heart and write a response to the above questions, allowing your heart to speak truthfully and honestly, without judging or discounting. Begin this letter by writing:

Dear (put your own name here),

Then answer all of the above questions.

End it by signing:

Love from Your Heart.

Create a Representation

The last thing you can do is create a representation of your heart. You can paint, draw, design a collage, make something multi-dimensional from fabric, wood, etc., whatever you are inspired to do. You might even consider it to be a Valentine to yourself.

Enjoy the exercise!

Blessings to you all,
Ingrid

Ingrid Kincaid is an internationally known storyteller, teacher and spiritual mentor. She is an intuitive reader of ancient runes. She gently shows her clients how to tap into their own inner wisdom by weaving together creativity, spirituality and ancient knowing. Ingrid is available for interviews, private consultations and group presentations. You can contact her at ingk@ingridkincaid.com or 415.652.3990.