As a writer who dances on the edge of reality and shadows, maintaining balance is crucial. Here are three strategies I use to keep my mind, body, and spirit in harmony:

Handstands for Physical Health

I do daily handstands to clear my mind and strengthen my body. My partner’s getting tired of being my personal videographer, though. Maybe it’s time to invest in a tripod… or grow a third arm?

Journaling for Emotional Health

I write in my journal to process feelings and develop characters. It’s all good until the journal starts writing back with snarky commentary on my life choices.

Meditation for Spiritual Health

I meditate to stay grounded while exploring magical realms. Just don’t go too deep, or you might find yourself trapped in Chapter 3 of your unfinished novel. It’s a delicate balance. Sometimes, though, the line blurs. I’ll be deep in meditation, visualizing a scene, when suddenly I’m not just imagining it anymore. I’m there, fighting to keep tigers out of my house. The real challenge isn’t the tigers—it’s accepting that they’re actually manifestations of my repressed anxieties, here to force me to confront what I’ve been avoiding.

In the end, maintaining health and well-being as a writer of dark, magical tales is a bit like navigating a funhouse mirror maze. It’s disorienting, sometimes frightening, but ultimately enlightening. These quirky practices might seem strange to outsiders, but they keep me balanced on the tightrope between reality and fantasy. And if occasionally that tightrope turns into a tiger, or my journal starts editing my life choices? Well, that’s just part of the charm of a writer’s life.

By

S.J Asher

If you enjoy exploring the blurred lines between reality and magic, check out my debut novel, Road Theory, with more details here.

Daily writing prompt

What strategies do you use to maintain your health and well-being?

View all responses