Create-Today with Beth Buffington

Your Brain Is Wired Against You. Here's a Clever Workaround Have you ever woken up exhausted, tried to be productive, and then gone to bed still feeling behind? Friend, that is not just a busy week. That is low energy that needs to replenished. This is a problem is not going to fix itself. The good news is that you do not need a total life overhaul to start feeling better. You just need one word: Refine. In Episode 125 of Create Today, Beth Buffington walks us through the third word in her "Going FourWords" framework, and this word is Refine. "Going FourWords" is a creative wellness system built to help keep you feeling saner, happier, and more like yourself in a world that never really slows down. What You Will Discover in This Episode: • The downward spiral so many of us are living in and do not even realize. Beth opens with a scene that will feel very familiar: the tired morning, the scattered day, the endless scrolling, and the anxious nights that keep it all going. • Why this problem is bigger than just being busy. You will learn what is actually happening when you feel overwhelmed, including burnout, nervous system overload, and the negativity bias your brain defaults to when left on autopilot. • A quick recap of the first two Going FourWords: Revive, which is getting the rest your body and mind are actually asking for, and Realize, which is waking up from autopilot and noticing the good that is already in your life. • What Refine really means, and it is not what you think. This is not a heavy lift. Refine is about small, consistent actions taken over time. Think of it like saving five dollars a day. Not a lot today, but life-changing over a year. • The five-dollar-a-day metaphor that will completely change how you think about self-care. Beth does the math, and by the time she is finished you will see your five minutes of stillness very differently. • Seven practical ways to make Refine work inside your actual life, not a fantasy version of it. Spoiler alert: Start smaller than feels necessary. Attach new habits to what you already do. Schedule it. Make it visible. Track it. Stay flexible. And always come back to your why. • The real definition of consistency…and it has nothing to do with perfection. Consistency means you come back. You miss a day and you come back. You lose your rhythm and you come back. That is it. • The beautiful shift that happens underneath the Refine work that you commit to. Every time you choose to take care of yourself, you are sending yourself a message that says I am worth showing up for. And over time, that message changes everything. Also Mentioned in This Episode: • The Going FourWords Framework by Beth Buffington, which includes Revive, Realize, Refine, and Release • The science of neuroplasticity and how your brain can actually rewire itself toward positivity • The Create Today Membership, where you get community and guided support for going forwards in your real life • One-to-One Coaching with Beth, for personalized creative wellness transformation Next week: the fourth and final Going FourWords word, Release 🔗 Links to Resources:
 Join the Create Today Membership:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout One to One Creative Coaching with Beth:
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Discover more about how you can Create-Today!
https://www.bdi-create.today/ Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Time Stamp 00:00 Burnout Spiral Signs 02:12 Going Forwards Framework 05:27 Refine Means Action 09:20 Brain Rewiring Basics 13:03 Start Small Sleep Example 14:40 Consistency Compounds 19:17 Refine Feels Like Joy 21:17 Sponsor and Coaching Help 23:07 Make Self Care Doable 23:52 Seven Steps to Stay Consistent 32:58 Refine From Inside Out 33:45 Final Challenge and Wrap

Feeling blah? You’re Living on Autopilot — 7 Ways to Wake Up and Enjoy Your Life! Have you ever driven to the same place daily or even weekly and when you get to where you're going... you barely remember “seeing” anything during your drive? 🚗 That's autopilot — and many of us are living a LOT of our moments and even day(s)–lost in auto pilot. It's happening so much more than we realize, and it robs us of our happiness. In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, you’ll discover how to wake up and enjoy life! We will explore the second powerful word in my Going FourWords framework: REALIZE. This episode will gently wake you up so you can REALIZE the beauty, joy, and everyday blessings that autopilot has been quietly filtering out of your life. Prepare to walk away with 7 simple, science-backed ways to start noticing the bliss in your life – again.  ✨In this episode, you'll discover: • What "autopilot" actually does to your brain — and why it's erasing your joy • The two powerful layers of the REALIZE phase: turning awareness inward AND outward • The brain science behind why we miss the good stuff (hello, negativity bias!) • How to rewire your negativity bias (it can be done!) • How creativity (a variety that is NOT making art) is one of your greatest wellness tools • Why most people don't need a different life–they need a different way of SEEING the life they already have • How dopamine and serotonin are triggered when you train your brain to realize beauty • Beth's 7 simple, approachable practices to wake yourself up and realize the goodness around you — starting TODAY • Why choosing joy isn't about ignoring hard things — it's about building resilience • How the REALIZE phase fits into the full Going FourWords framework for creative wellness Whether you're navigating a heavy season, feeling stuck in routine, or just longing to feel more present and alive in your everyday life — this episode is your invitation to open your eyes and REALIZE what's already waiting to be seen. 💛 🔗 Links to Create-Today Resources: Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout One to One Creative Coaching (just you and Beth):
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Discover more about how you can Create-Today!
https://www.bdi-create.today Listen to E123 The Revive Episode:
https://www.bdi-create.today/podcasts/create-today-with-beth-buffington/episodes/2149197491 Don’t miss next week: E125 — REFINE (the third POWERFUL word of the Going FourWords framework) Time Line: 00:00 Welcome and Imagination 02:10 Autopilot Explained 04:00 FourWords Framework 06:00 Realize Two Layers 08:20 Creativity as Noticing 11:36 Brain Science of Attention 18:06 Hard Times and Resilience 21:23 Seven Ways to Realize 29:20 Sponsor and Coaching 31:20 Small Shifts and Wrap Up

You’re Not Lazy. You’re Energy is EMPTY. Here’s How to Revive! Is your energy lower than you’re admitting – even to yourself? You’re still showing up, still checking things off, still keeping it all moving… but underneath it all, you’re exhausted. And not the kind a good night’s sleep fixes. In this episode of Create-Today with Beth Buffington, Beth introduces her powerful "FourWords" wellbeing framework: 
Revive, Realize, Refine, Release 
 This week we’re starting right at the beginning with the word most people skip entirely: REVIVE. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:• Why being depleted is NOT a discipline problem — and what it actually means to your life (this one is actually a relief) • The science behind what exhaustion does to your brain, your creativity, and to your emotional regulation, and why it’s important to know what’s happening! •  How to do a quick 60-second energy check-in using creativity as your tool (no art skills required!) •  Why our culture has normalized exhaustion as a badge of honor, and how to stop wearing it •  Seven grounded, real-world ways to give yourself permission to rest TODAY. NOT someday. TODAY! :) •  Why allowing yourself to REVIVE is a responsibility, not a reward.•  How your brain can actually rewire and rebuild and be happier! •  A sneak peek at next week’s word: REALIZE•  Why you can’t “REALIZE” clearly if you’re running on empty Whether you’re a creative, an entrepreneur, a parent, or just a human being who has been quietly running on fumes, this episode is your permission slip to get some rest! If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s been running on empty. Sometimes the most generous thing we can do is share the treasures that have elevated our own lives. 🔗 Links to Create-Today Resources & Retreats:
 Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership

https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout One to One Creative Coaching:
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Discover more about how you can Create-Today!

https://www.bdi-create.today Creative Wellness Retreat- May 2026

https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy Timestamp: 00:00 Welcome and Check In 01:19 Depletion Not Discipline 01:38 Four Words Framework 03:23 What Revive Means 04:17 Why We Normalize Exhaustion 05:52 Revive Is A Choice 07:13 Brain Science Of Burnout 10:08 Sleep Creativity Connection 12:03 Quick Energy Check In 15:55 Permission To Rest 17:11 Seven Ways To Revive 25:03 Sponsor And Support Options 26:52 Recovery And Next Steps

Overwhelmed? What you need to know today—with Health Coach, Lisa Murphy Did you know that 76% of adults are stressed about the future of our world? — And that's on top of everything else life is already throwing at us! 😮 In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, we sit down with the brilliant Health Coach Lisa Murphy for a warm, eye-opening conversation about something that just might change the way you think about being overwhelmed and how you use your self-care—creatively. Here's what you'll discover in this episode: 👇 🎨 Creativity is NOT just for artists — it's a tool for every single one of us to manage stress, rewire our brains, and feel more alive every day. 🧘 Lisa's Four Pillars of Vibrant Living (food, mood, rest & movement) and how weaving creativity into each one can transform your wellbeing. 🔬 The science-backed reason why small, playful creative acts literally build new neural pathways in your brain — and what that means for your mental health as you age. 💡 Beth's “Going Fourwords” practice of creative care — Revive, Realize, Refine, and Release — and how these four words can help you stop running on empty. 🌀 Why true self-care goes WAY deeper than bubble baths and spa days 🤝 The magic of community — and why healing is never a solo journey. 🏡 All about the upcoming Sylva Synergy retreat in Atchison, Kansas, happening in a gorgeous historic Victorian art gallery (Amelia Earhart's hometown!), featuring yoga, sensory walks, creative workshops, massage, energy healing, and so much more. ✨ Why investing a weekend in yourself is one of the most generous — NOT selfish — things you can do for the people you love. 📅 How to join Sylva Sessions, the online membership for anyone who can't make meet in person this May to explore core care + creative care + community care from wherever you are. Whether you're a professional artist, a stressed-out caregiver, or someone who swears they "aren't creative" — this episode has something genuinely life-changing for you. 💛 🔗 Links & Resources from the Podcast: Reach out to Lisa
Get your complimentary session: https://www.lisamurphyllc.com/ Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership with Beth & Lisa:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Register for Sylva Session Online Creative Wellness!
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Email Beth with your questions:
[email protected] The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline: 00:00 Welcome Lisa 01:07 Stressful Times Ahead 02:52 Creativity Not Art 05:32 Science Meets Woo 06:28 Three Pillars Retreat 07:28 Core Care Basics 10:08 Community Lifts All 11:03 Creative Care Roadmap 15:06 Release and Resilience 17:57 Beginner Mindset Stories 20:31 Crochet Memory Reset 21:39 Embrace the Learning Curve 22:31 Creativity as Self Discovery 23:35 Beginner Mindset for Pros 25:09 Neuroplasticity Explained 27:43 Retreats for a Reset 29:55 Self Care Is Not Selfish 32:36 Sylva Synergy Location Vibes 34:11 What to Expect Each Day

Your Brain Is Lying to You — Here's How to Stop It Have you ever felt like you have too many tabs open — not just on your computer, but inside your head? 😅 You're not alone. Right now, 76% of adults say the state of the world is a significant source of stress. The anxiety is real. The overwhelm is real. And sometimes the drama feels so constant…that we don’t even know what to call it… Because, it just… feels like Tuesday. In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, we explore 7 small, science-backed mindset shifts designed to quiet the noise, calm the chaos, and bring you back to your most authentic self — without a complete life overhaul. The secret thread running through all seven? A powerful little concept called metacognition: learning to think about what you're thinking. 🌟 In this episode, you'll discover: • What metacognition is — and why neuroscientists say it's one of the most powerful tools for an anxious mind • Shift #1: How to stop the "I'm already behind" spiral before it ruins your whole day • Shift #2: Why letting something stay unfinished might be the bravest, smartest thing you do today • Shift #3: A simple environment change that restores your brain's focus • Shift #4: The surprising reason using your hands calms your nervous system• Shift #5: How to lower the bar — a LOT — and still feel like a total rockstar • Shift #6: Why just 5 minutes of quiet input could change everything for your overwhelmed brain • Shift #7: The creative practice that science says leads to higher happiness — starting the very next day• The one truth that ties all 7 shifts together — and why you are not your thoughts Whether you're dealing with burnout, anxiety, creative blocks, or just that constant hum of stress that never quite goes away — this episode is your permission slip to breathe. 💛 ✨ SYLVA SYNERGY CREATIVE WELLNESS RETREAT — MAY 29–31, 2026 Beth is hosting a creative wellness retreat in Atchison, Kansas with Health Coach, Lisa Murphy! Come restore your body, reconnect with your creativity, and find your people. Spots are limited — visit the link below to reserve yours. Or go to www.bdicreate.today to learn more. 🔗 Links to Resources & Retreats:Sylva Synergy Creative Wellness Retreat- May 2026
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Discover more about how you can Create-Today!
https://www.bdi-create.today/ If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s been stressed by overwhelming thoughts. Sometimes the most generous thing we can do is share the treasures that have elevated our own lives. Time Stamps: 00:00 Welcome and Overwhelm Signs 01:18 Why Everyone Feels Burned Out 02:22 Seven Shifts and Metacognition 07:05 Shift One Stop Catching Up 10:43 Shift Two Leave It Unfinished 15:02 Shift Three Change Your Scenery 18:25 Shift Four Simple Hand Work 21:39 Retreat Invitation Sylva Synergy 23:46 Shift Five Lower the Bar 27:11 Shift Six Five Minutes Quiet 30:13 Shift Seven Small Creativity 35:07 Wrap Up - Think about What You're Thinking! :)

Your Brain is Starving for REAL light...and all that scrolling and screen time is the problem. Have you been feeling foggy, creatively stuck, or just… blah? What if the answer isn’t a new digital organizer, a new app, or pushing through the creative block — but something as simple as stepping outside? In this episode of Create-Today, Beth dives into fascinating facts about digital overload. 
(Too much screen time) She explores what this means for your brain, your mood, and your wellbeing. The science is surprising, the solutions are simple, and you’ll never look at a walk around the block the same way again. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: • The term “digital obesity” and what it means — and why it’s affecting your creative spark more than you realize • The truth about “ultra-processed light” and how screens are quietly starving your brain of what it really needs • The fascinating science behind your brain’s default mode network — the secret source of your best ideas — and why screen time is shutting it down • What the research says about spending just a few minutes in nature (hint: it measurably lowers your stress hormones!) • Why neuroplasticity — your brain’s ability to learn and grow — is the first thing digital overload steals from you • The powerful “awe response” and how looking up at the sky for one minute a day can expand your creative thinking • 5 simple, real-life ways to stop feeding your brain artificial light and start nourishing it with the REAL thing • Why time outside is not a reward you earn after you finish your to-do list — it IS vital for your success as person who needs to contribute to our world! If something in today’s episode makes you lean forward and think “I need more of this” — come join Beth and health coach Lisa Murphy at a Sylva Experience. These immersive retreats are designed around the exact principles Beth shares in this episode: real light, real connection, real creative wellness. As mentioned in the video:Sylva Synergy Creative Wellness Retreat- May 2026
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Discover more about how you can Create-Today!
https://www.bdi-create.today/ If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s been living behind a screen and wondering why they feel blue. Sometimes the most generous thing we can do is share the treasures that have elevated our own lives. Time Stamp: 00:00 Welcome and Big Idea 02:11 Potato Chips Screen Metaphor 05:27 Digital Obesity Explained 08:38 Ultra Processed Light 09:51 Brain Science Creativity 15:02 Nature Reverses Overload 15:59 Attention Restoration Awe 19:26 Sylva Retreat Invitation 21:50 Outdoor Time Is Work 25:39 Five Ways Real Light 32:38 Final Challenge Sendoff

Turns out, the secret ingredient to a more creative life might already be in your spice cabinet. Bold food, bold ideas, and one Chattanooga chef will change the way you’ll think about cooking. 🌶️ In this episode of Create Today, Beth sits down with the incredibly fun and inspiring Blackwell Smith — founder of Lucky Cajun Seasoning, a Chattanooga-based small-batch spice brand built for real home cooks who want bold, reliable flavors without the fuss. This conversation goes way beyond spicing up dinner tonight! (Although it will do that!) This episode is about creativity, confidence, courage, and how… the way you approach your dinner plate—can literally change your life. Here's what you'll discover in this episode: • Why creativity is a DECISION — Blackwell shares how no one is born a great cook (or a great anything). It's all about showing up, experimenting, and giving yourself permission to mess up— to get the SKILLS. • How a single technique unlocks a thousand possibilities — Learn how mastering something as simple as a vinaigrette can become the creative foundation for endless meals. • The "flywheel" effect of creative cooking — When you cook better, you eat better. When you eat better, you have more energy. More energy fuels more creativity. It all compounds! • The "stay out of the aisles" rule — Blackwell's dad's golden advice for eating healthier with less effort, and why whole foods at home beat packaged meals EVERY single time. • Why your spices might be sabotaging your meals —(how old are the spices in your kitchen??) Fresh ground spices are a game-changer. • The blackened shrimp and polenta experiment — Beth shares her own kitchen adventure trying something totally new — and how it turned out even better than the restaurant version! • The No-BS Holiday Cookbook — Blackwell's approach to recipes as frameworks, not rules — so you can cook boldly with whatever's already in your pantry. • Creativity isn't just for artists — Whether you're an accountant, a busy parent, or someone who thinks they "can't cook," this episode will shift how you see your own creative potential. • Where to find Lucky Cajun Seasoning — Because after this episode, you're going to want to try them! Cooking creatively is about how you're thinking — not making roses out of radishes." Whatever you do, friends... stay creative! 🎨 Create-Today Resources and Retreats: Sylva Synergy Creative Wellness Retreat — Atchison, Kansas - May
2026https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Discover more about how you can Create-Today!
https://www.bdi-create.today/ Find Blackwell Smith & Lucky Cajun Seasoning: 🌐 Website: https://theluckycajun.com/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LuckyCajunSeasoning 📖 The No-BS Holiday Cookbook — check the website for availability (a No-BS Seafood Cookbook is coming soon!)  Time Stamps:00:00 Meet Blackwell Smith 01:15 Cooking Roots and Cajun Influence 01:47 No BS Cookbook Approach 02:39 Cook With What You Have 03:43 Chefs Think in Techniques 04:42 Breaking the Family Cooking Rut 08:47 Confidence Over Perfection 11:22 Why Home Cooking Matters 14:14 Skip the Boxed Aisles 16:50 Favorite Recipes and Boudin 18:57 Rethinking Stuffed Mushrooms 19:50 Portobello Pizza Hack 20:48 Going Rogue With Recipes 23:46 From Cooking To Business 25:06 Shrimp And Polenta Remix 28:22 Let Yourself Mess Up 32:38 Where To Find Lucky Cajun 34:25 Fresh Spices Matter 36:31 Final Kitchen Challenge 43:22 Your invitation to Sylva Synergy & Sessions  

Kitchen Creativity: The Secret to Better Health & Happiness | E118 🎨 In this episode of Create-Today, Beth takes you somewhere a little unexpected — into the kitchen — and what she shares just might change the way you think about food forever. A QUESTION for you...What if feeding yourself well was one of the most creative things you could do today? That's exactly what you’ll explore in E118, and it is so good. In this episode, you'll discover: 🎨 Why your creative instincts are actually wired to help you make better food choices — and how to trust them 🧠 The jaw-dropping science behind how the food you eat directly fuels (or drains) your brain's ability to focus, create, and stay emotionally resilient 🌈 The "eat the rainbow" principle — why color in your food is not just beautiful, it's brain medicine (flavonoids, antioxidants, and neuroplasticity, oh my!) 😊 The gut-brain connection: why 90–95% of your serotonin is made in your gut — and what that means for your mood, creativity, and anxiety levels 🍳 Why cooking IS creating — and how chopping, stirring, and a pretty plate activates the same calming, joy-producing brain state as painting, crocheting, or crafting 🍽️ The Oxford University study that proves a beautifully plated meal actually tastes better — and how to use this to your advantage every single day ✨ 5 simple, fast plating ideas you can try this week — no chef skills required — that make your meals feel intentional, beautiful, and nourishing 💡 Beth's personal health journey — how she became healthier, stronger, and happier through the lens of creativity (and what her daughter, a registered dietician, taught her along the way) 🕯️ How slowing down at the table — using candles, pretty dishes, no screens — can help you eat less, enjoy more, and even... lose weight! This episode isn't about dieting (although you can lose weight if you follow these secrets…because Beth did!). It’s not about restrictions, or food rules. It's about bringing the same curiosity and joy you bring to your creative work to your plate — and then watching your health, happiness, and energy— rise! Beth's challenge for you this week: Before your next meal, take 30 seconds and look at your plate like a composition. What colors do you see? What could you add? Get out those beautiful dishes you've been saving for "special occasions"? Because—you are the special occasion. 🌟 🌿 Resources and retreats mentioned in this episode: Sylva Synergy Retreat An in-person creative wellness gathering in Atchison, Kansas this May Hosted by Beth and Health Coach Lisa MurphyRegister soon - Spots are limited! 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy Sylva Sessions MembershipA monthly online creative wellness membershipHosted by Beth and Health Coach Lisa Murphy https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout More about Beth and Create-Today offeringshttps://www.bdi-create.today/ If this episode spoke to your heart... Share it with someone who's been running on empty. Sometimes the most generous creative act is pointing a friend toward something good. 💛 ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 Welcome Back & What Part Two Is About  1:00 Recap of Part One — The Science of Creativity & Health  2:30 Why Information Isn't Enough — The Case for Immersion  4:00 What Research Shows About Immersive Experiences & Lasting Change  4:45 Introducing Sylva Events — Built on Core Care, Creativity & Community  5:30 Sylva Synergy — Atchison, Kansas, May 2025  6:30 Sylva Solace — Asheville, NC, Horse Shoe Farm, October 2025  8:00 How to Get on the Sylva Waitlist (Sold Out in 2025!)  8:45 Sylva Sessions — Monthly Online Membership & Retreat Perks  10:00 Bringing It All Together — A New Relationship With Your Daily Life  11:30 The Plate, The Walk, The Journal — Three Small Creative Acts That Change Everything  12:30 The Compound Effect of Small Creative Habits  13:30 Your Challenge — One Creative Thing in Each Area This Week  15:00 Closing — You Don't Just Become Healthier. You Become More Fully Yourself. 

E117 - Small Deposits, Big Life Returns: How 10 Minutes of Creativity Changes Everything What if the foggy, drained, emotionally heavy feeling you've been carrying around isn't burnout — it's a creative deficit? What if just 10 minutes a day could start to compound your creative energy? In this episode, Beth Buffington unpacks the science-backed truth about creativity, wellbeing, and the extraordinary power of small, consistent creative deposits — that you can start….today. ✨ In This Episode, You'll Discover: • What a "creative deficit" actually is — and why you might be running on empty without even realizing it• Why doom scrolling is a neurological drain, not just a time drain (and what to do instead) • The neuroscience behind creativity: how just 10 minutes a day activates your parasympathetic nervous system and reduces cortisol • Studies that show creativity is literally medicine for your brain • Why talent and skill level doesn't matter — at all — and how you can benefit from creativity even if you "can't draw a stick figure" • The upward spiral effect: how one creative day makes the next day feel lighter, brighter, and more energized • Beth's glass jar idea — a beautiful, visual way to track your daily creative investments and watch them grow • Real words from real listeners about how tiny creative moments changed their lives • Your official permission slip to be creative even when the dishes aren't done and the inbox isn't empty • A sneak peek at what's coming next week — creativity at the dinner table (yes, really!) 💛 Resources + Links Mentioned: Episode 33 — Creative Snacks
https://www.bdi-create.today/podcasts/create-today-with-beth-buffington/episodes/2148786061 Episode 105 — Tiny Art
https://www.bdi-create.today/podcasts/create-today-with-beth-buffington/episodes/2149133515 Sylva Synergy Creative Wellness Retreat — Atchison, Kansas
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy-waitlist Sylva Sessions Monthly Online Creative Wellness Membership
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Discover more about how you can Create-Today!
https://www.bdi-create.today/ If this episode spoke to you, please share it with someone you love who's been running on empty. Sometimes the most generous thing you can do for another person is hand them a permission slip. 💜  🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington! Timeline:00:00 Welcome and Big Question 01:40 Creative Deficit Explained 03:08 Ten Minute Creative Deposits 04:11 Doomscrolling vs Making 09:16 Easy Ideas That Count 10:39 The Jar Tracking Trick 11:48 Neuroscience and Research Benefits 16:44 Real Life Returns and Resilience 20:26 Permission to Prioritize Creativity 23:28 Retreat and Membership Invite 26:37 Weekly Challenge and Wrap Up

Create to Thrive Part 2: How Creativity Becomes a Daily Habit to Eat Beautifully, Move Joyfully, Sleep Peacefully Science tells us creativity is deeply linked to our overall wellness. We all know that we need to eat better, move more, and sleep longer… But knowing something and actually living it? Those are two very different things. In Part Two of Create to Thrive, Beth Buffington goes beyond the research and into the real question: how do you make this your life? (If you haven't listened to Part One yet, check it out — and realize that Part 2 is where everything becomes real.) Information about wellness— is everywhere. 
You've read the articles, made the plans, and you know what you should be doing. So why is having healthy habits —Soooo hard? In Part Two of the Create to Thrive series, Beth Buffington makes the case that the missing ingredient isn't more information — it's immersion. It's the felt sense of actually living something fully, even for just a few days, so that it becomes part of who you are. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why reading about healthy habits and actually living them are two completely different things — and what bridges that gap • How immersive experiences engage the whole person (mind, body, and emotion) and create the most lasting behavior change • The beautiful truth that creativity transforms your daily choices — from what you eat, to how you move, to how you rest — from burdens into invitations • How a single plate of food arranged with care sends a powerful message to your brain: you are worth beauty and nourishment • Why a walk taken with a camera and a curious eye feeds your soul as much as your body • How a simple journaling ritual before sleep tells your nervous system: the day is done, it was good, you can rest • How the compound effect of small creative habits literally rewires your neural pathways over time — making healthy living feel natural • How a Sylva Event accelerates all of this — and what makes the Sylva experience unlike anything most people have ever encountered Beth also introduces the full Sylva universe (co-hosted with Lisa Murphy, Healthy Aging Coach): Sylva Synergy, Sylva Solace, and Sylva Sessions. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership with Beth & Lisa:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Sylva Events Homepage:
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva Email Beth and let’s chat:
[email protected] The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 Welcome Back & What Part Two Is About 1:00 Recap of Part One — The Science of Creativity & Health 2:30 Why Information Isn't Enough — The Case for Immersion 4:00 What Research Shows About Immersive Experiences & Lasting Change 4:45 Introducing Sylva Events — Built on Core Care, Creativity & Community 5:30 Sylva Synergy — Atchison, Kansas, May 2025 6:30 Sylva Solace — Asheville, NC, Horse Shoe Farm, October 2025 8:00 How to Get on the Sylva Waitlist (Sold Out in 2025!) 8:45 Sylva Sessions — Monthly Online Membership & Retreat Perks 10:00 Bringing It All Together — A New Relationship With Your Daily Life 11:30 The Plate, The Walk, The Journal — Three Small Creative Acts That Change Everything 12:30 The Compound Effect of Small Creative Habits 13:30 Your Challenge — One Creative Thing in Each Area This Week 15:00 Closing — You Don't Just Become Healthier. You Become More Fully Yourself. ✨ Key Takeaways • Knowing what to do and actually living it are very different things — immersion is the bridge Immersive experiences that engage mind, body, and emotion are the most powerful catalysts for lasting habit change (research-backed) • Creativity isn't separate from your health — it IS your health. It transforms nutrition into art, exercise into play, and sleep into a sacred ritual • Arranging your food beautifully before you eat it is a small creative act that tells your brain: you are worth nourishment • A walk with a camera and a creative mission feeds your soul as deeply as it strengthens your body • A simple journaling ritual before bed is a signal to your nervous system: the day is done, it was good, now rest • Small creative choices compound over time — literally reshaping your neural pathways and making healthy living feel natural • Sylva Events — co-hosted by Beth Buffington and Healthy Aging Coach Lisa Murphy — are immersive retreats built on Core Care, Creativity & Community • Sylva Synergy is in Atchison, KS this May. • Sylva Solace returns to Asheville, NC this October. • Both sell out — get on the waitlist now • Sylva Sessions is the monthly online membership that brings the Sylva experience into your everyday life — with valuable perks toward retreat registration • When you combine creativity with healthy living, you don't just become healthier — you become more fully yourself

The Secret Health Habit No One Talks About: How Creativity Transforms What You Eat, How You Move & How You Sleep What if the missing ingredient in your health journey isn't another diet, a new gym routine, or a better sleep app — it's creativity? In this episode, Beth Buffington reveals the science-backed connection between your creative life and your physical health, and shares beautiful, practical ways to weave creativity into the way you eat, move, and rest. This is the episode that will change how you see your whole life. We talk constantly about the Big Three of health: nutrition, exercise, and sleep. But there's a fourth element that makes all three work better — and it might be the last thing you'd expect. In Part One of this two-part Create to Thrive series, Beth Buffington explores the surprising, research-backed connection between creativity and whole-life health. Creativity isn't just an artistic pursuit — it's a biological reset button that lowers stress hormones, activates the brain's reward centers, and makes healthy choices feel joyful rather than obligatory. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why creativity is just as essential to your health as what you eat, how you move, and how much you sleep — and the science that proves it. • A direct link between eating more fruits and vegetables and higher creativity and wellbeing • How the way you PRESENT your food — colors, textures, vessels, and environment — can make healthy eating more enjoyable and sustainable • That walking increases creative output by an average of 60% • Why dancing, photography hikes, and treasure-hunting walks are some of the most powerful forms of exercise you can do • How to sleep deeper and wake up more inspired • Beautiful, real-life ways to make your nutrition, movement, and sleep rituals into acts of creativity that nourish heart, mind, body, and soul 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership with Beth & Lisa: https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Sylva Events Homepage: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva Email Beth and let’s chat: [email protected] The Create-Today Home Page: https://www.bdi-create.today ✨ Key Takeaways… • Creativity is a HEALTH HABIT — backed by neuroscience and documented research, not just a hobby  • When you eat more colorful, whole foods, your creativity and wellbeing go up — and vice versa • Arranging food beautifully before eating increases mindfulness, satisfaction, and healthier choices over time • How to try one new ingredient, a new recipe, or a cuisine you've never explored • Your environment matters: using beautiful dishware and lighting a candle can transform a meal into a nourishing ritual • How walking boosts creative thinking by 60% • Adding a creative mission to your walk makes you go farther and enjoy it more • Dance isn't just fun— it can be MORE effective than standard exercise for psychological wellbeing • Journaling before bed helps you fall asleep faster by externalizing mental chatter • The creative things you do during your DAY directly affect how peacefully you sleep at NIGHT • Designing a beautiful sleep space — intentional colors, textures• Small rituals signals safety and rest to your nervous system Part Two will (available next week) …in this episode, Beth will share how a Sylva Event can accelerate this transformation and you’ll discover the magic inside Sylva Synergy (Atchison, KS — May), Sylva Solace (Asheville, NC — October), and Sylva Sessions, the monthly online membership. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction01:39 The Missing Health Habit 02:29 Creativity Changes Everything 04:34 Science of Creative Wellbeing 06:28 Food as Creative Practice 08:43 Plate Art and Mindful Eating 11:49 Curiosity in the Kitchen 14:46 Food Photography Pause 16:52 Movement Fuels Creativity 19:11 Dance and Joyful Motion 20:07 Creative Walk Missions 22:14 Mindful Movement Practices 22:55 Sleep and Creative States 25:07 Creative Sleep Rituals 28:12 Key Takeaways and Challenge

Why Rest & Movement Matter for Your Heart (and Your Creativity) In Part 2 of this heart-centered conversation with Healthy Aging Coach, Lisa Murphy, we move beyond food and stress management and into two foundations that are powerful for your health, energy, focus, and creative capacity: rest and movement. This episode explores how modern life keeps many of us in constant contraction—rushing, reacting, pushing—without enough true recovery built into our days. Beth and Lisa unpack how this chronic pace impacts your heart, your nervous system, and your ability to access creative flow. You’ll hear why collapsing on the couch at night isn’t the same as restorative rest, and how small shifts in your daily rhythms can change how your body carries stress. In this episode, you’ll discover how to care for your heart by discovering: • The difference between restorative rest and end-of-day collapse • Why sleep is a cornerstone of heart health (and what “enough” sleep actually looks like) • How evening habits affect your nervous system long before your head hits the pillow • Practical ways to create wind-down rituals that support deeper rest • Why creativity itself can function as a form of regulation and recovery • How movement strengthens the heart without requiring intense workouts • Simple ways to incorporate movement into daily life when schedules feel full • How to recognize when your heart rate is being supported by the movement you choose • Why consistency matters more than perfection when it comes to health habits • How rest and movement protect not just your heart—but also your focus, mood, and creative stamina This important heart health episode is an invitation to rethink how you care for yourself in the in-between moments of your day—the transitions, the evenings, the small windows of choice that quietly shape your health over time. When your body is supported, your creativity doesn’t have to fight for space—it is easier to become that authentic self you know is possible. ✨ This is Part 2 of a special Heart Health series. In last week’s episode #113, Beth and Lisa discussed the importance and power of food and “peace & quiet” as incredible ways to care for your heart health —check it out! Reach out to Lisa
Murphy, Healthy Aging CoachGet your complimentary session: https://www.lisamurphyllc.com/ Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership with Beth & Lisa:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Sylva Solace retreat in Asheville North Carolina with Beth & Lisa:
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Sylva Synergy retreat in Atchison Kansas with Beth & Lisa:https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-synergy-waitlist Register for Create-Today Membership!
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Email Beth and let’s chat:
[email protected] The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline:00:00 Welcome Back: Healthy Habits for a Healthy Heart (Part 2) 01:34 Pillars #3 & #4: Rest and Movement—What We’re Covering Today 02:18 What “Rest” Really Means: Sleep + Downtime 03:15 The “Contract and Collapse” Cycle (and Why Your Heart Pays for It) 05:19 Sleep Isn’t a Weakness: Busting the Busyness Trap 08:53 Try This: A Restful Evening Experiment (No Wine, No Netflix Binge) 11:03 How Much Sleep You Need + The Heart Health Stats 12:59 Sleep Hygiene That Works: Alcohol, Caffeine, and a Wind-Down Routine 16:35 Supplements Aren’t the Silver Bullet: Fix the Habits First 18:29 Real Downtime: Devices Off, Nature, and Taking a True Vacation 20:15 Start Small: Take a Half-Day Offline Break (It’s Required) 21:00 Unplug to Unwind: Reclaiming Slower, Calmer Evenings 21:55 Small Sleep Experiments: Boundaries, Guilt, and Protecting Your Health 24:04 Movement (Not “Exercise”): The Pressure-Free Heart-Health Habit 25:02 150 Minutes a Week Made Easy: Micro-Movement Ideas You’ll Actually Do 27:03 Build Up Safely: Start Tiny, Avoid Weekend-Warrior Burnout 28:26 Uplevel Your Routine: Cardio, Mobility, Flexibility & Strength Training 29:30 Isometrics Explained: Planks, Wall Sits & Lowering Blood Pressure 30:58 Does It Count? Gardening, Dancing, and the “Honor System” for Effort 32:10 No Fancy Gear Needed: Simple Signs Your Heart Rate Is Up 33:39 Genes Aren’t Destiny: The 75% You Can Control (Recap of Heart-Health Pillars) 36:18 It’s Never Too Late: Micro-Changes That Add Up at Any Age 37:10 Sylva Events & Sessions: Creativity + Wellness Community (Retreats & Online Group) 39:54 Final Send-Off: Take Care of Your Heart

Be Your Own Valentine: Creative Ways to Care for Your Heart!  February is Heart Month, and this episode is a gentle, creative invitation to care for your heart — with a new perspective about how to be healthier—using creativity.  In this episode of Create Today, Beth is joined by Healthy Aging Coach Lisa Murphy to explore how creativity, nourishment, and calm play a powerful role in heart health — especially for women. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why heart disease is leading cause of death for women — and why it’s often misunderstood. How women’s heart symptoms can differ from men’s (and why we tend to ignore early signs) Two foundational pillars of heart health you can start today: food and mood  Why heart-healthy eating is about adding more, not restriction The truth about anti-inflammatory foods and chronic inflammation How to “gamify” your meals by eating a colorful variety of plants each week Why fiber is essential for heart and gut health (and how much you actually need) Yes… why dark chocolate counts as a heart-healthy food 🍫 How chronic stress quietly damages the heart — even in otherwise healthy people Simple ways to lower stress through quiet, creativity, and nervous-system balance  Why creativity isn’t extra — it’s a daily form of emotional and physical care  This conversation is compassionate, practical, and deeply reassuring — a reminder that caring for your heart can feel kind, creative, and doable. ✨ This is Part 1 of a special Heart Health series. Next week, Beth and Lisa continue with movement and sleep. Resources: Reach out to Lisa Murphy, Healthy Aging Coach Get your complimentary session:https://www.lisamurphyllc.com/   Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership with Beth & Lisa: https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Register for Create-Today Membership! https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Email Beth and let’s chat: [email protected] The Create-Today Home Page: https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:24 Understanding Heart Disease03:36 Heart Disease in Women05:45 Healthy Eating for a Healthy Heart09:39 The Importance of Fiber16:57 The Benefits of Dark Chocolate20:32 Managing Stress for Heart Health27:43 Conclusion and Next Steps

If you want to feel better - CREATE!  Are you feeling exhausted in a way that sleep doesn’t fix?
Are you barely productive, and also feel disconnected, foggy, or burned out? In this episode of Create Today, Beth explores why creativity isn’t a “nice-to-have,” but a biological need for your brain, nervous system, and emotional wellbeing. As mentioned: When you're ready for guidance with your creativity!
Join the Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout This episode is a deep exploration of science-backed facts about creativity— as well as an uplifting conversation about how small, everyday creative acts help you feel better — not by fixing you, but by supporting how your brain actually works (for the better!). You’ll discover: • Why feeling better is a brain regulation issue, not a personal failure • How chronic stress reshapes the brain — and why motivation disappears • What creativity does neurologically to calm the nervous system • How hands-on creative activities reduce amygdala over-activation • Why dopamine from creativity is different from dopamine from scrolling • How creativity supports emotional regulation, resilience, and focus • Why your brain doesn’t care if you’re “good” at what you create • The difference between creativity for wellbeing vs. creativity for performance • Why daily creativity (even a little while) compounds into real change • How to choose a creative practice that actually helps you feel better You don’t need talent.
You don’t need more time or money.
You just need permission and commitment. Creativity isn’t indulgent.
It’s foundational self-care for your brain! 🎨 Mentioned in this episode:
Sylva SessionsA space for creative wellness, nervous system care, and sustainable creativity Join the Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout For Professional Artists - Register for Create-Today Membership!
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Email Beth and let’s chat:
[email protected] The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 02:16 The Search for Wellbeing 03:05 Creativity as a Solution 05:17 The Biological Benefits of Creativity 06:35 Understanding Brain Function and Stress 09:02 How Creativity Engages the Brain 16:38 The Importance of Doing, Not the Result 19:35 Who Benefits from Creativity 21:20 Making Creativity a Daily Practice 27:55 Creativity as Self-Care 30:26 Conclusion and Call to Action

When the World Is in Chaos, Self Care Is How You Can Survive. The world feels heavy right now. Breaking news. Extreme weather. Political tension. Constant alerts.
 Many of us are walking through our days with a quiet weight we can’t quite name — but we feel it in our bodies, our energy, and our creativity. In this grounding and timely conversation, Beth is joined by returning guest Lisa Murphy, healthy aging coach and trusted voice in whole-person wellbeing, to talk about what it means to take care of ourselves in a chaotic world. And, how simple things make a difference in how we deal with chaos. This episode is not about escaping reality — it’s about learning how to live well inside it. In This Episode, You’ll explore: • Why the world feels emotionally and physically heavier right now • How constant stress, news cycles, and global uncertainty impact our nervous systems • Why “making life easier” is a powerful form of self-care and resilience • How small, gentle shifts support long-term health • Why caring for yourself isn’t selfish, lazy, or optional — it’s necessary • How creativity helps us adapt, and stay human when the world feels harsh This conversation is a reminder that we don’t survive chaos by pushing harder —
we survive it by caring for ourselves better. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, worn down and dazed by the noise of our world, this episode offers a simple perspective, and a gentler way forward. Reach out to Lisa Murphy - Get a complimentary session: https://www.lisamurphyllc.com/ Join Sylva Sessions Wellness Membership with Beth & Lisa:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Register for the Create-Today Membership!
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Email Beth and let’s chat:
[email protected] The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome - Lisa Murphy01:57 Discussing the Heaviness of the World 03:26 Impact of Social Media and News 05:59 Coping Mechanisms and Triggers 15:48 Healthy Aging and Self-Care Tips 24:34 Small Joys and Self-Care 25:36 Challenging Conditioning and Embracing Self-Love 27:20 The Importance of Hydration and Nutrition 30:17 Mindful Eating and Awareness 32:39 Incorporating Movement into Daily Life 36:36 Navigating Guilt and Setting Boundaries 41:34 The Ripple Effect of Self-Care 42:52 Final Thoughts and Encouragement43:11 Learn about Create Today Offerings

Your Creative Fitness is as important as being physically fit.  In Episode 110 of Create Today with Beth Buffington, we explore a powerful shift: creativity isn’t a luxury or a hobby—it’s essential mental fitness. In a world filled with breaking news alerts, political noise, extreme weather, and the constant pressure of perfection on social media, your nervous system is under daily strain. This episode explains how everyday creative acts can become a scientifically backed way to restore calm, focus, and emotional resilience. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why creativity is a form of mental fitness, not just self-expression • How simple creative acts trigger dopamine and support motivation and hope • The role creativity plays in calming the nervous system and lowering stress • How art pulls us out of fear-based thinking and back into the present moment • Why creativity helps protect your brain from burnout, anxiety, and overload • How everyday art supports emotional resilience during uncertain times • Actionable, realistic ways to add creativity to your daily life (even when you’re busy) • Why you don’t need talent—just curiosity and permission This episode is an invitation to step away from the noise of the world and reconnect with something steady, human, and healing—your creative instinct. ✨ Creativity isn’t about making something impressive.
✨ It’s about making yourself feel strong and whole again. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or creatively disconnected, this conversation will remind you that joy, calm, and clarity are still accessible—one small creative moment at a time. Join my Sylva Sessions Creative Wellness Membership:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Register for Create-Today Membership!
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Email Beth and let’s chat:
[email protected] Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:
https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline:00:00 Introduction to Creative Wellness 00:27 The Impact of Modern Life on Our Attention 01:38 The Power of Creativity for Mental Fitness 06:05 The Science Behind Creative Practices 10:30 Creative Services and Memberships 12:31 Building a Daily Creative Practice 13:27 Tips for Consistent Creativity 19:49 The Importance of Play and Experimentation 21:05 Conclusion and Encouragement

Curiosity is a SUPER Power you can use to be happier, healthier...and SMARTER! Knowing how to use curiosity as a creative tool — is a super power for your brain.
 In this episode, you will explore the neuroscience of curiosity — and why wonder builds creativity, resilience, and wellbeing.
 Stay to the end for 7 simple ways to live a more curious life starting today! Curiosity isn’t just a personality trait — it’s a brain-reshaping force you can harness. In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, we explore how curiosity fuels your brain, your creativity, and your overall wellbeing. You’ll learn why curiosity helps you learn better, feel better, and stay creatively alive and joyful — at any age. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why curiosity softens rigid thinking and opens creative pathways • How curiosity helps your brain connect ideas in unexpected ways • The neuroscience behind curiosity, dopamine, and learning • Why scrolling and quick dopamine hits stimulate the brain — but doesn't help it grow • How curiosity builds neural pathways tied to memory, adaptability, and emotional resilience • 7 simple, realistic ways to live a more curious life (starting today) You’ll also discover how curiosity supports long-term wellbeing — not just momentary motivation — and why it may be one of the most underrated tools for creative and emotional health. ✨ Plus: You’ll realize that curiosity offers the benefits of dopamine with long-term payoff — not burnout. Join my Sylva Sessions Creative Wellness Membership:

https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Register for Create-Today Workshops!

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline: 00:00 Introduction to Curiosity 01:43 The Power of Curiosity 03:45 Curiosity in Creative Problem Solving 08:34 Neuroscience of Curiosity 11:26 Healthy Dopamine vs. Fast Dopamine 14:52 Practical Tips for a Curious Life 20:08 The Importance of Curiosity Today 21:28 Your Invitation to Be Curious This Week

E108 The Story of So Loco - Why Women Need Scream Pillows (and Creative Ways to Release What We Carry) Get ready for a powerful, honest, and unexpectedly joyful conversation about creativity, emotional health, and why sometimes… you just need to scream into a pillow. In this special episode of Create Today, Beth is joined by Laura Pagley and Sandra O’Neil, founders of So Loco, a women-led brand rooted in empathy, emotional wellbeing, and community. ✨ In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why creative release is essential for emotional health (and not something to feel ashamed of) • The story behind the So Loco • How creativity helped Laura and Sandra survive toxic work environments and reclaim their joy • Why confidence isn’t a prerequisite for creative courage • How imposter syndrome shows up — even for successful creatives • The importance of community, compassion, and not carrying life’s weight alone • How creative ideas evolve slowly — and why that’s a good thing This episode is for you if: • You’ve ever felt emotionally overloaded • You’ve questioned your confidence or creative path • You’re craving permission to release, rest, and reconnect • You believe creativity can be a form of self-care and healing How to Find So Loco and their products:
Laura Pagley & Sandra O’Neil — Founders of So Loco
Website: www.getsoloco.com
Instagram: @get_soloco
Facebook: So Loco 
LinkedIn: So Loco Offerings at BDI Create.Today
Join Sylva Session Wellness Membershiphttps://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkoutRegister to the Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”
https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:
https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today As always, thank you for being part of the Create Today community. Stay creative, my friend.

What if just a few minutes of creativity a day could shape your future happiness, health, and resilience? In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, we explore the powerful idea of creative deposits—tiny, consistent creative actions that quietly compound into long-term wellbeing for “future you.” You’ll discover: • Why small creative habits matter more than occasional big projects • How creativity today supports tomorrow’s emotional health, stress reduction, and resilience • The neuroscience behind creative consistency and brain wellbeing • How daily creativity creates an upward spiral of mood, motivation, and mental clarity • Simple, low-pressure ideas for creative deposits you can start today • Why consistency—not talent—is the real secret to creative wellbeing • How present-you can actively support the wellbeing of future-you This episode is an invitation to stop waiting for “more time” or “more inspiration”—and start building your wellbeing through creativity that fits into real life. ✨ Your future self will thank you. Join my Sylva Sessions Creative Wellness Membership:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Register for Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:
https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today Timeline:00:00 Introduction to Creative Deposits 00:41 The Power of Small Creative Actions 02:02 Understanding Creative Deposits 04:19 The Science Behind Creativity 07:31 Benefits of Creative Deposits 09:29 Implementing Creative Deposits 12:28 Creative Consistency and Community 17:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To Succeed —You need to understand YOUR past, present and future spirits. Creativity isn’t just self-expression—it’s a powerful path to health and happiness.
 In this special holiday episode, Beth explores how understanding your creative
past, present, and future can change how you feel—and how you live —and how you succeed. Learn more about how you can CREATE-TODAY: https://www.bdi-create.today/ Your creativity is powerful: What if one of the most effective ways to feel healthier, happier, and more successful is to better understand yourself—who you’ve been, who you are now, and who you’re becoming? In this holiday-inspired episode of Create Today, Beth shares how creativity supports emotional wellbeing, confidence, resilience, and meaningful personal growth. This reflective conversation helps you reconnect with your creative identity—not as pressure or productivity, but as a form of self-care and self-trust and paths to your goals. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🌿 Why understanding your creative past builds confidence and emotional resilience 🧠 How reflecting on small creative wins improves mental health and self-worth 💛 The connection between creativity, happiness, and long-term wellbeing ⏳ What guarding your creativity may be costing your health and joy 🎯 How turning dreams into goals creates momentum and reduces overwhelm 🚫 Five common mindset traps that quietly block success and fulfillment ☕ A powerful visualization: meeting your future self and learning what truly matters ✨ Why creativity is not extra—it’s essential to a balanced, healthy life This episode is a gentle invitation to slow down, reflect, and choose a more nourishing creative path forward— to a better you. 00:00 Welcome and Holiday Reflections 01:13 The Influence of 'A Christmas Carol' 07:07 Exploring Creativity Past 17:16 Embracing Creativity Present 22:56 Envisioning Creativity Yet to Come 33:53 Meeting Your Future Creative Self 36:40 Final Thoughts and Holiday Wishes Offerings at BDI Create Today
 The Create-Today Membership & Coaching:
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”
https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:
https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources  

Mini Creations That Calm Stress Feeling overwhelmed or mentally exhausted? What if calming your stress didn’t require hours of meditation or expensive solutions — just a few creative minutes? In this episode of Create Today, Beth Buffington explores how tiny creative acts can gently calm your nervous system and help you build real emotional resilience. Stress doesn’t usually arrive all at once — it accumulates quietly in the body and mind. In Episode 105, Beth shares how mini-creations — small, pressure-free creative moments — can help interrupt stress, settle anxious thoughts, and restore a sense of calm. This episode is a reminder that creativity doesn’t have to be big to be powerful. What You’ll Learn in This Episode • Why daily stress often lingers in the nervous system • What emotional resilience really means (and what it doesn’t) • How brief creative activity can help lower stress hormones • Why creativity works even when you only have a few minutes • Simple, approachable mini-creation ideas anyone can try • How small creative moments help retrain your stress response over time • Why creativity is one of the most accessible forms of self-care Timing of this episode: 00:00 Introduction to Creative Stress Relief02:14 The Power of Mini Creations04:45 Understanding Resilience06:46 Scientific Backing of Creativity10:54 Practical Mini Creation Ideas20:31 Long-term Benefits of Mini Creations22:17 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Create-Today Offerings:
This episode is sponsored by Sylva Sessions, the Creative Wellness Membership. Sylva Sessions is a supportive space where creativity and wellbeing meet. We explore how creativity supports emotional health through the 3 C’s: Core Care – movement, nourishment, rest Creative Care – creativity as a tool for calm and resilience Community Care – connection that strengthens wellbeing Sylva Sessions meets twice a month to reflect, share, and practice creative wellness together.
Here’s the link to join Sylva Sessions:
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/TYb6qQtg/checkout Create-Today Membership & Workshops 
https://www.bdi-create.today/
Discover more creative excitement is available now —and next!

Learn more about being healthy and happy using your creativity!Visit:https://www.bdi-create.today/ If you’ve ever felt stuck, tired, or creatively drained — this episode may be the simplest, most useful creative reset you try all year. You'll discover how just 10 minutes in nature can shift your mindset, refresh your energy, and open space for breakthrough ideas. 🌿 In this episode you’ll discover: • Why walking — even just a few minutes — activates divergent thinking, giving you more creative ideas than sitting ever could. • How exposure to nature acts as a gentle “reset button” for your brain, restoring attention and mental energy so creativity can bloom. • Emotional and mental-health boosts from being outdoors — lower stress, improve your mood, provide clearer focus and breakthrough ideas. • Why a 10-minute nature “reset break” can interrupt stuck or repetitive thinking and expand your mental field — making room for fresh, unexpected ideas. • Five practical ways to integrate short outdoor sessions into your creative life: micro-nature breaks, mindful walking, nature-inspired prompts, creative incubation, and idea retrieval rituals. • A guided 10-minute “Outdoor Creativity Reset” you can do with Beth— today. Whether you’re a painter, writer, creator, entrepreneur, crafter, or any type of creative —this episode shows you how to tap into nature as your easiest, most trustworthy creative collaborator. ✨ Want ongoing support for your creative wellness?
 Check out Sylva Sessions, our twice-monthly membership — a gentle, soulful space designed to help you nourish your creative spirit, care for yourself, and build community with like-hearted artists and makers.
Link to register for Sylva Sessions: 👉 http://bdi-create.today/sylvasessions Or go to https://www.bdi-create.today/ 00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Creative Blocks00:48 A Metaphor for Creative Blocks02:56 The Power of Movement and Nature06:13 Scientific Evidence Supporting Nature Walks09:47 Personal Experience: A Walk with Bentley13:29 Practical Tips for Creative Walks16:54 Guided Creative Walking Meditation27:37 Conclusion: Embrace Nature for Creativity

Your Brain on Creativity: The Stress-Relief Paths You Should be Using - with Guest Diane Dreher When life feels heavy, hectic, or overwhelming — your creativity show you paths to solve problems and find answers. In this heartfelt conversation with psychologist, author, and coach Diane Dreher, we explore how art, writing, movement, meditation, and inner work become powerful tools for self-care, mental health, and deep well-being. What you’ll discover in this episode: • A glimpse into Diane’s new book “Pathways to Inner Peace” with an explanation of the 9 pathways you can use through your creativity to create opportunities, find balance and reduce stress. • Creativity isn’t a luxury. It’s a vital self-care resource for emotional health, resilience, and inner peace. • How creativity helps release stress, process emotions, and restore balance when you feel depleted. • The surprising ways creative expression builds self-esteem, clarity, and a sense of purpose — especially when combined with mindful practices. • Practical ideas and gentle exercises to weave creativity into everyday life — even when time, energy, or motivation feels thin. • How integrating creative care + self-care + inner growth supports not just your art, but your mental and spiritual health (the kind of care Diane calls “personal renaissance”). If you’ve ever wondered if your sketches, journaling, or little creative experiments “really matter” — this episode will show you: yes. They matter deeply. They might even be what saves you. ✨ Ready for ongoing support for your creative wellness?
Check out Sylva Sessions, our twice-monthly membership is a gentle, soulful spaceto help you nourish your creative spirit, care for yourself, and build community with like-hearted artists and makers.
👉 http://bdi-create.today/sylvasessions Or go to https://www.bdi-create.today/ Find out more about Diane Dreher:
 Amazon link to Diane’s new book “Pathways to Inner Peace” Diane’s Website: https://www.dianedreher.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:08 Diane's Journey and Renaissance Inspiration 03:09 The Concept of Calling and Creativity 04:44 Challenges and Overcoming Adversity 12:26 The Role of Nature and Creativity15:49 Morning Rituals and Meditation 21:21 Building Confidence and Overcoming Obstacles 29:03 Discovering Your Calling and Creativity 29:33 Managing Stress and Finding Solutions 32:00 The Power of Community and Connection 33:50 Introducing 'Pathways to Inner Peace' 34:13 Nine Pathways to Greater Peace 35:05 Mindful Presence and Simple Practices 36:58 Building Community Through Micro Moments 39:21 Meditation and Mantra Practices 40:42 Kindness, Purpose, and Intuition 48:14 The Pathway of Joy and Happiness Habits 52:22 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Creative Rituals Heal Winter Blues and Holiday Stress Winter & the Holiday Season don't have to drain your energy or dim your spirit! Discover how simple acts of creativity can actually lift your mood, calm your mind, and bring joy back into your days during the dark nights of Winter. In this episode, Beth Buffington shares the science-backed reasons why making art (or doing a creative hobby or even a DIY project) — even for five minutes a day — reduces stress, lowers anxiety, and helps you thrive through the holiday hustle and dark winter months. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, tired, or disconnected from yourself, this episode will show you exactly how creativity can become your winter lifeline. Amazing Facts About Winter Creativity: • Creativity lowers stress hormones and shifts your brain out of fight-or-flight into calm regulation. • Why winter and holiday seasons increase overwhelm — and how consistent small creative acts help your mind recover and reset. • The emotional + neurological benefits of art, knitting, collage, journaling, baking, singing, and more! • How five minutes of daily sketching changed Beth’s emotional happiness. • How creative rituals improve emotional intelligence, helping you process feelings, reduce anxiety, and bounce back faster during stressful seasons. • Five guidelines for starting a winter creative practice that you'll enjoy doing daily!  • Five simple creative rituals you can begin now — even if you're overwhelmed, or unsure where to start. • Why small, imperfect creative moments matter more than big artistic achievements. • How creativity strengthens the brain and improves overall wellbeing. In this episode you’ll discover important mindset shifts you need to thrive during this winter (and the holiday season) instead of just surviving it. 00:00 Introduction: Embracing Winter's Challenges 01:15 The Power of Creativity 02:12 Personal Story: Finding Solace in Art 05:53 Science Behind Creativity and Wellbeing 10:04 Guidelines for a Creative Winter Practice 19:42 Creating a Cozy Creative Space 22:48 Movement and Creativity 26:25 Reflecting and Embracing the Season 28:00 Conclusion Let Your Creativity Shine Sylva Sessions Creative Wellness Membership If you’re craving a soft, supportive place to nurture your creativity and wellbeing this winter, join Sylva Sessions — Beth Buffington + Lisa Murphy’s twice-a-month creative wellness membership.
 If you want more joy, more grounding, and a creative community to walk through winter with you… You’re invited.
 👉 http://bdi-create.today/sylvasessions For more creative ways to "Create-Today"  https://www.bdi-create.today/

Suzi K Edwards Reinvented Her Creative Life (And How You Can Too) Ever wondered how many creative lives one person can live?
 Suzi K Edwards has reinvented herself again and again — And her story will change how you see your own creativity. In this episode, author, illustrator, public artist, and former fashion designer Suzi K Edwards joins Beth to explore the winding, exciting path of her amazing creative life. From the fashion houses of New York… to public mosaics… to children’s books illustrated entirely in Procreate… Suzi’s story is a testament to courage, curiosity, and starting again. Whether you’re a new creative, a late bloomer, a busy creative with little time, or someone craving the confidence to make something new—this conversation will lift you. 🎧 Listen now and rediscover what’s possible in your creative life. In this episode:
• How Suzi moved from fashion design → yoga → mosaics → children’s books
• Why synchronicity plays a powerful role in creativity
• How Procreate sparked a new creative chapter
• The truth about confidence (and why it’s built in community)
• How dogs, empathy, and compassion shape Suzi’s books
• Why “creativity is godliness”
• Encouragement for creatives at any age or season 📚 Learn more about Suzi K Edwards:
Website: SuziKEdwards.com
Instagram: @SuziKEdwards1
TikTok: @SuziKEdwards
The Doggos Series — available on Amazon Join Beth for more creativity! Join Sylva Sessions: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Come Create-Today with Beth: https://www.bdi-create.today/ 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Special Guest Susie K Edwards 01:37 Susie K Edwards' Early Life and Career Beginnings 03:05 The Journey to New York and Breakthrough in Fashion 07:13 Transition from Fashion to Public Art and Personal Life 11:04 Creating Children's Books and the Doggos Series 17:18 The Magic of Procreate and Digital Illustration 19:38 Family Legacy and Self-Publishing Journey 21:45 Final Thoughts and Reflections 22:50 Overcoming Childhood Challenges 25:15 Finding Confidence Through Creativity 25:59 The Importance of Community and Support 29:35 Embracing Creativity at Any Age 32:13 Practical Steps to Start Creating 37:14 Current Projects and Future Plans 42:46 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

✨ 100 Episodes of Creative Health and Happiness! ✨
Today, we’re celebrating 100 episodes of Create Today with Beth Buffington! This is a heartfelt milestone built on a simple truth:
Creativity isn’t a luxury. It’s a lifeline. In this joyful, soul-nourishing episode, Beth shares a powerful message about why your creativity matters now more than ever.” You’ll discover why making, doodling, painting, writing, or simply playing creatively isn’t frivolous — it’s vital self-care for your mind, body, and soul. 💛 Join the celebration, reflect on your own creative journey, and learn how giving yourself grace to create can heal, restore, and ripple out to change the world. In This Episode your discover: • Why creativity belongs alongside sleep, nutrition, and movement as a pillar of wellbeing • How small acts of creativity calm the mind and regulate the nervous system • Why giving yourself grace to create is a radical act of self-kindness • How your creativity ripples outward — healing you and inspiring others • The real reason the world needs your imperfect, human, beautiful art • A special invitation to join the Sylva Sessions, a creative renewal experience with Beth and Lisa Murphy Listen and Celebrate with Beth! 🍰🎨 100 episodes means 100 reminders about why your creativity matters.
 Keep shining your light, making your art, and showing up for yourself — one imperfect, beautiful act of creation at a time. 🎧 Listen now, then share this episode with a creative friend who needs a little encouragement to Create Today! How to join Beth for more creativity! Register for Sylva Sessions: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Come Create-Today with Beth: https://www.bdi-create.today/ 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration 01:27 The Importance of Creativity 01:54 Inspirational Story: Amy McNee's TED Talk 03:26 Creativity as a Pillar of Health 04:48 Overcoming Guilt and Embracing Creativity 06:47 Scientific Benefits of Creativity 07:25 Sponsor Message: Sylva Sessions 09:55 Celebrating the Listener's Role 11:03 The Power of Grace in Creativity 13:56 Creativity's Ripple Effect 17:30 Encouragement to Create Imperfectly 20:12 Final Thoughts and Future Episodes

E99 - The Art of Feeding Your Creative Self (You are what you eat!) Discover how the food you eat can fuel your imagination and help you create from a place of color, care, and vitality.
 What if your next creative breakthrough started on your plate? 🍓 In this episode, Beth explores how what—and how—you eat can ignite your imagination, sharpen your focus, and nourish your creative energy from the inside out. ✨ Episode Highlights • The powerful connection between nutrition and creativity—and why a well-fed body fuels creativity and inspiration. • Beth’s childhood story of what started a lifelong love of creativity and nourishment • The Creative Fuel Palette—a fun, mindful approach to “eating the rainbow” • How colorful, nutrient-rich foods enhance memory, mood, and focus • Ten artsy ways to feed your creative body • Why mindful eating can spark gratitude, inspiration, and inner calm • A reminder to feed your body like it belongs to an artist—because it does Explore your creativity with Create-Today events! 🌿 Sylva Solace Creative Retreat (2026 Waitlist):
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreatBeth and Lisa Murphy’s Sylva Solace Fall Creative Retreat sold out in 2025.This intimate four-day retreat is where creative health, rest, and renewal come together. Spaces are limited—get on the Sylva Solace 2026 waitlist today and be among the first to register when doors open. 🌸 Sylva Sessions: Year-Round Creative Renewal
http://bdi-create.today/sylvasessions
You don’t have to wait for the next retreat to reconnect with your creative spirit. Sylva Sessions is a nurturing extension of the retreat experience—a year-round space for creative resilience, mindful reflection, and inspired community, led by Beth Buffington and Lisa Murphy. Join the Sessions and keep your creative rhythm nourished all year long. The Create-Today website: https://www.bdi-create.today/

E-98 Creativity Makes You Healthier – Movement Makes You Even Better Feeling stuck, stressed, or low on creative energy? 🌿
Discover how combining creativity + movement can boost your mood, clear your mind, and strengthen your whole health.
Your most joyful, creative life might just begin with a walk — and a doodle. ✨ Have you noticed how your best ideas often appear while walking, biking, or moving? In this inspiring episode, Beth explores the powerful connection between creativity and movement — and how bringing the two together can strengthen your whole health. You’ll hear how creativity reduces stress, boosts mood, improves sleep, and even supports your heart. Beth shares her own creative-wellbeing routine and offers 10 simple, joyful ways to weave creative play into your daily movement. This episode is filled with both science and soul — proof that art, doodles, and color aren’t luxuries… they’re tools for living well.  You’ll Learn: • Why creativity is a science-backed form of self-care • How movement sparks ideas and clears creative blocks • The secret link between creativity, dopamine, and happiness • Simple ways to combine art, journaling, cooking, and walking for better health •  Why consistency and permission are essential to creative wellbeing 🌸 Mentioned in This Episode: Creative Coaching with Beth Buffington Discover how to build a creative lifestyle that supports your mind, body, and soul.
https://www.bdi-create.todayChoose "coaching" in the menu.

 Or email Beth: [email protected] and set up a free creative consultation.Say “I want to chat about my creativity!” “When creativity and movement walk hand in hand, your whole life starts to feel more alive.”~Beth Berns Buffington

E 97: Is Your Creativity...Healthy? Here’s Why It Matters When was the last time you felt fully alive in your creativity — not pushing, not producing, just creating because it makes you feel whole? In this reflective solo episode, Beth Buffington explores the often-overlooked idea of creative health — how your creative energy is as essential to your wellbeing as movement, sleep, or nutrition. You’ll discover how burnout begins when your creativity goes untended — and how simple creative rituals can help you restore your balance, mood, and motivation. You’ll learn how to listen to what your creativity needs, how to keep your inner artist strong through life’s ups and downs, and why caring for your creative self might be the most powerful act of resilience you can practice. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why creative health is just as vital as your physical and emotional health • How to spot the early signs of creative depletion before burnout hits • The link between creativity, your nervous system, and emotional recovery • Easy, everyday ways to refill your creative energy (no big projects required) • How the three "C's" — Core Care, Creative Care, and Community Care — build lasting resilience • Why tending to your creativity creates strength that carries into every part of life • How to join the Sylva Solace 2026 Creative Resilience Retreat waitlist 💬 Beth says: “When your creativity is healthy, everything else in your life gets stronger — your energy, your hope, your joy.” 🌸 Join the Create-Today Community Get on the Sylva Solace 2026 Waitlist - Limited spots open soon
Email: [email protected] and say “I’m ready for some Solace!” Join the Create Today Membership for workshops, coaching, and creative support
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Get on Beth’s email list for daily inspiration https://www.bdi-create.today/  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:55 The Magic of Silva Solace Retreat 02:08 Understanding Resilience 03:14 Combining Core Health and Creative Health 05:02 The Three Cs of Resilience 08:26 Core Care: Nurturing Your Body and Mind 10:32 Creative Health: The Power of Creativity 14:17 Community Care: The Strength of Connection 18:50 Building Resilience: Practical Steps 24:01 Conclusion and staying creative!

E96 - Building a Creative Community with Tracy Dawn Brewer of Brewtifully (Canton Ohio) What happens when you mix courage, creativity, and community?
You get Tracy Dawn Brewer — artist, designer, teacher, and founder of Brewtifully in Canton, Ohio. In this inspiring episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, Tracy shares how she turned her creative intuition into a thriving community art studio and gallery. From murals that come alive through augmented reality to workshops that connect artists of all ages, Tracy proves that creativity can truly transform a town — and a life. In this episode you’ll hear: • How Tracy blended tech + art to create the first Augmented-Reality Mural in Stark County, Ohio • Why she built Brewtifully as a space for hands-on art experiences and local collaboration • The truth about fear, intuition, and confidence in pursuing creative dreams • How to use community partnerships to grow your art business • Why you’re never too old (or too busy) to start something new • Tracy’s real-life lessons in creative resilience while living with chronic illness Whether you’re a maker, teacher, or dreamer, this conversation will remind you to trust your intuition, share your art, and build community right where you are! Connect with Tracy Dawn Brewer Website & Shop: Brewtifully.comInstagram | Facebook | TikTok: @Brewtifully Podcast: Brewtifully Made Location: Oakwood Square, Plain Township — Canton, Ohio Brought to You by Create Today with Beth Buffington If this episode inspired you, join the Create Today CommunityA place where creatives grow together through workshops, retreats, and coaching. Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register for the Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar day.com Mentioned in this Episode: Augmented Reality Art & Murals Artivive App (augmented reality app)Chamber of Commerce Collaboration Community Gallery Programs Self-Care for Creatives (Yoga, Mindfulness, Movement)

E95 The Power of Playing Small: Creative Acts {that are Tiny} to Spark Joy Every Day Feeling drained or uninspired? These small creative acts can reset your mood, calm your mind, and spark ideas — no masterpiece required.
 Join Beth Buffington from Create Today as she shares 13 tiny ways to bring more creativity, joy, and presence into your everyday life such as… • Light a candle on a Tuesday.
• Arrange your fruit like art.
• Doodle in your planner.
• Wear the fun socks.
 Listen in for the entire creative list! Each small act adds up to a happier, healthier more creative you – in heart, mind, body and soul. Science shows that everyday creativity boosts positive emotion and wellbeing — even five minutes of play, color, or handwriting.
 In this uplifting episode, Beth walks you through easy, joyful micro-habits that help you reconnect with your creative self.
No perfection, no pressure — just daily doses of delight. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & what “small creative acts” really mean
03:45 – Why your brain loves tiny bursts of creativity
07:12 – 15 simple creative ideas (good dishes, flowers, sunlight, doodles, pets + more)
17:45 – Science of the “default mode network” & creative reset
20:30 – Try one today — and how to keep it going
22:00 – Join the Create Today community Offering for you at: Create-TodayThe Create-Today Membership: https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching
 The Sylva Solace Creative Retreat waitlist: [email protected] Say: “WAITLIST me!”

Episode 94 Creative Silence - The Secret to Unlocking Your Best Ideas! Do you ever feel like your mind is constantly racing — bouncing from emails to social media to endless scrolling? In this episode of Create-Today with Beth Buffington, we explore the practice of Creative Silence — a gentle, screen-free reset designed to quiet the noise and unlock your natural imagination. Beth shares personal stories, science-backed insights, and simple practices — from sensory walks to “micro-unplugs” — that help you step away from devices, slow down, and reconnect with the creative ideas already waiting inside you. You’ll learn how even 10 minutes of silence can calm anxiety, improve focus, boost sleep, and spark fresh inspiration. Whether you’re an artist, writer, maker, or simply craving a break from the overwhelm, this episode will give you practical tools to unplug and play so you can feel lighter, clearer, and more creatively alive. What You’ll Discover in this Episode: • Why silence (away from screens, podcasts, and social media) is essential for creativity • Science showing how quiet reflection reduces stress and increases innovation • A step-by-step sensory walk to spark new ideas • “Micro-unplug” activities you can do daily (screen-free meals, bedtime resets, mini rituals) • How unplugging supports focus, sleep, and the brain’s default mode network — where problem-solving and imagination thrive • Simple ways to capture your “creative breadcrumbs” before they slip away ✨ This episode is your invitation to try Creative Silence — a brave and joyful act of unplugging that leads to fresh ideas, calmer energy, and more creative play. Create-Today Offerings: Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Register for Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

A Simple Creative Reset (just 10 minutes) to Relieve Anxiety & Find Flow 

 What if just 10 minutes could reset your mood, calm your body, and recharge your creativity? 

 In this episode you’ll learn how a simple 10-minute doodle practice can shift your focus, lower stress, and remind you of your creative power. No fancy supplies. No pressure. Just a pen, paper, and your willingness to play. You’ll discover: • Why a 10-minute creative reset can calm your nervous system & reduce anxiety. • How doodling lowers cortisol and helps you break free from worry loops. • Three Micro-Creative practices - easy to do...anywhere!• Science-backed benefits of doodling: memory boost, stress relief, focus reset. • How stacking these resets daily builds resilience and confidence. This 10 Minute Everyday Creative Reset isn’t about making a masterpiece—it’s about reclaiming a pocket of time to reset your brain, shift your mood, and feel like yourself again. Come join Beth for this creative goodness...and rediscover your creative energy! 00:00 Introduction to Creative Reset 01:16 The Power of 10 Minutes 02:57 Personal Experience with Creative Reset 05:34 Creating Your Own Reset 07:08 Micro Creative Practices 14:00 The Science Behind Doodling 15:18 Additional Creative Practices 17:10 Conclusion and Next Steps Create-Today Offerings: Reservations for the Sylva Solace Creative Retreat: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register for the Create-Today Workshops!
(You'll find the Doodle Meditation here!)https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

Creativity Can Calm a Chaotic World. Are You Using Your Creativity for Good? Feeling stressed and overwhelmed by the news lately? Discover how creativity can calm anxiety, boost joy, and help you live happier and healthier—starting today. Are you looking for ways to feel calmer, happier, and healthier in today’s noisy world?Come… Create-Today: https://www.bdi-create.today/ In this episode of Create-Today with Beth Buffington, we explore how creativity isn’t just about art—it’s about emotional health, resilience, and connection. When you shift your focus away from the constant negativity of the headlines and into a daily creative practice, you’ll discover new ways to lower stress, soften anger, and create more joy in your life. ✨ What you’ll learn in this episode: • Why creativity works like emotional first aid for stress and anxiety • How science shows that creative practices increase empathy and reduce prejudice • Simple creative activities to feel more grounded and connected • How to use creativity as a tool to build bridges, not walls • Why you don’t need to be an “artist” to use creativity for healing and happiness 💡 Creativity is more than making art—it’s about creating moments of peace, connection, and understanding. Whether you’re journaling, cooking, sketching, or crafting with friends, every small creative act can spark change inside you and in the world around you. 🌿 Sponsor Note: This episode is brought to you by Sylva Solace, a creative health retreat designed to restore your heart, mind, body, and soul. Join us this fall for a transformative experience built on core care, creative care, and community. Spots are limited—learn more using this link 👉 Sylva Solace Creative Retreat: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat If you’ve been craving calm in a chaotic world, this episode will show you how to use your creativity for good—and why it might be the most important step you take toward happiness and health. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:19 The Power of Creativity 02:09 A Story from Lake Michigan 05:02 The Problem with Narrow Focus 07:51 The Science Behind Creativity and Unity 12:34 Practical Creative Ideas for Unity 21:20 Recap and Final Thoughts Create-Today Offerings: Reservations for the Sylva Solace Creative Retreat: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register for the Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

E91 - Embrace healthy aging using your creativity with Lisa Murphy, Certified Health Coach   Ready to actually feel better—in your heart, mind, body and soul? Come to the Sylva Solace Retreat for creative resilience: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat This week...Healthy Aging Coach, Lisa Murphy returns to chat with us about the simple secrets to Creative health. Lisa works with entrepreneurs and creatives to help maintain their personal health and wellness. 
 No matter the season you are in today— if you want to age like a fine wine (um, yes please!) TODAY is the perfect time to set yourself up for healthy aging. 
 Lisa shares how you can become more calm, confident, and comfortable in your creative skin than ever before. She will open doors and windows to better health… and happier creative days.
 Come and explore why it is essential to age healthily, regardless of your age. Key topics include the importance of creativity in maintaining health, practical tips for incorporating movement into your daily routine, and the surprising impact of stress on creativity. Lisa also offers practical advice on managing stress and enhancing mental well-being. Whether you're in your twenties or eighties, this episode is packed with inspirational insights to help you age gracefully and healthily. Don't miss it! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:56 Lisa Murphy's Background and Journey 03:38 Healthy Aging and Creativity 05:04 Women's Health Concerns 07:29 Creative Movement and Exercise 10:18 Mental Health and Connection 21:08 Confidence and Aging Gracefully 24:17 The Power of a Brag Book 26:18 Celebrating Everyday Moments 28:57 The Four Pillars of Healthy Aging 31:03 Embracing Change and Creativity 38:54 Lisa's Creative Outlets 41:50 Managing Stress for Creativity 44:27 Finding Time for Self-Care 48:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 💡 Mentioned in this episode: Sylva Solace Creative Wellness Retreat: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat  Reach out to Lisa Get your complimentary session:https://www.lisamurphyllc.com/ Offerings at Create-TodayRegister to the Create-Today Workshops!https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Become a Create-Today Member!https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching

E90 Tenacity, Resilience & Everyday Creativity | Drew Jones Marquez In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, singer-songwriter and musician Drew Jones Marquez opens up about the real journey of a creative life.  He shares about the tenacity it takes to keep going, the setbacks that shape us, and the unexpected places where creativity shows up. Drew tells his journey from being a young gospel singer in Chicago to a professional musician, educator, and LGBTQIA+ advocate. Discover how creativity has played a pivotal role in his life and career. Drew shares how his art isn’t limited to music—it’s in the way he cooks for his family, parents his children, and pours himself into everyday acts of care and imagination. His story is a reminder that creativity isn’t about perfection—it’s about persistence, resilience, and finding meaning in both the spotlight and the quiet corners of life. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep creating when challenges stack up—or how to honor your talents while building a full, grounded life—you’ll find wisdom, honesty, and inspiration in this conversation. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes that help you live more creatively every day. ✨ My lovely Creative - where do you find creativity outside of your art?
 In this episode, Drew Jones Marquez reminds us that creativity isn’t just about music, painting, or writing—it’s in cooking, parenting, problem-solving, and the everyday ways we bring beauty into life. 💬 Share in the comments: How do YOU find creative flow in your daily life?
I’d love to hear your story! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:34 Meet Drew Jones Marquez 03:07 Drew's Creative Journey 06:06 American Idol Experience 07:55 Success and No More Apologies 12:30 The Importance of Sharing Your Art 17:29 Advice for Aspiring Creatives 18:32 The Therapeutic Power of Baking 19:07 Connecting with Loved Ones Through Cooking 19:50 Embracing Imperfection in Creativity 21:53 The Role of Music in Daily Life 23:42 Creative Parenting and Teaching Strategies 29:52 Finding Joy in Everyday Tasks 30:37 Drew O'Neill's Musical Journey 32:24 Final Thoughts on Creativity How to find out more about Drew Jones Marquez:On Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/drew-oneal/1706848131 On Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/track/6DltDzvrFGNuEYeAENv4yF Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/drewonealmusic?igsh=cGgyb2Q3cm5nYzY1 Create-Today Offerings: Reservations for the Sylva Solace Creative Retreat: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat TheCreate Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register for the Create-Today Workshops!
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

Whose Voice Is in Your Head? Let's Unmask Your Inner CriticIn this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, you’ll discover the surprising truth about your inner critic: it just might be someone you know...from long ago (or yesterday). A teacher, a boss, a parent—someone who had harsh words for you in the past. This episode will help you uncover WHO your inner critic really is and will show you five practical ways to quiet that voice so you can create with confidence. What you’ll learn:
✔ How to identify the real person behind your inner critic
✔ Why that voice tries to “protect” you—but holds you back instead
✔ 5 powerful ways to manage the critic without losing energy
✔ How naming your critic changes everything
✔ A simple exercise to rewrite the voice with your truth If you’ve ever wondered why self-doubt feels so personal, this episode will reveal the roots—and give you tools to take back your creative freedom. ✨ Ready to hush that critic and create boldly? Start here, and then explore more support in the Create Today community: www.bdicreate.today 👉 Like, Subscribe, and Share this episode with someone who needs to know they’re not alone! 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Tone 02:10 Understanding the Inner Critic 06:35 Personal Experiences with the Inner Critic 13:36 Managing and Overcoming the Inner Critic 24:18 Practical Exercises and Final Thoughts Create-Today Offerings: Reservations for the Sylva Solace Creative Retreat: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register for the Create-Today Workshops! https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

How Artists Thrive Together: Lessons from a Successful Artist Collective What if you didn’t have to go it alone as an artist? In this episode of Create-Today with Beth Buffington, we’re pulling back the curtain on a thriving artist-owned “Art Forms Gallery” in Hill City, South Dakota. We uncover what has made this creative collective work so well – for 26 years! Beth is joined by three talented artists from the Art Forms Gallery, Gail McKane, Nancy Teal, and Pete Stach. Together they share their unique journeys and creative processes, from wet felting and repurposing antique silverware to sandblasting whiskey bottles. Discover how this artist co-op has thrived for 26 years, fostering a supportive community where 23 artists showcase and sell their work while maintaining a successful and thriving business structure. If you're looking for inspiration or thinking about starting your own creative business, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll hear real stories from these South Dakota artists who turned connection into opportunity, and learn why collaboration might be the missing piece in your creative business. Whether you dream of opening an artist co-op, joining a gallery, or simply finding your creative community, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive – creatively. In this episode, you’ll discover:
✅ Why community is the secret weapon for creative success
✅ How artist-owned galleries and collectives actually work
✅ The benefits of shared resources, shared space, and shared energy
✅ Steps you can take to create (or join) your own thriving artist network If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I had more support for my art business,” this conversation will inspire you to take the first step toward collaboration. 🎧 Listen now and start building the creative future you deserve! 00:00 Introduction and Special Guests 00:48 Meet the Artists: Gail, Pete, and Nancy 03:01 The Story Behind Art Forms Gallery 04:47 Running a Successful Artist Co-op 07:23 The Importance of Community and Collaboration 15:45 Balancing Art and Business 18:24 Gail's Journey from Town Manager to Artist 24:37 Pete's Transition from Retail to Creativity 25:21 A New Beginning in Hill City 26:20 Discovering Sandblasting 27:01 Building Confidence Through Art 28:29 Nancy's Journey with Silverware Art 31:50 The Creative Flow and Confidence 34:09 Exploring Different Art Forms 40:01 Custom Work and Customer Interaction 45:27 Community and Creativity 46:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Shownotes: ArtForms Gallery – Contact Details Name: ArtForms Gallery, Inc. (artist-operated, member-owned) Phone: (605) 574-4894 Hill City Chamber Address: 280 Main Street, Hill City, SD 57745, USA Hill City ChamberMapQuest  Website / Social Page: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArtFormsGallery/ Hill City ChamberFacebook Official Website: https://artformsgallery.org/ Get your reservation for the: Sylva Solace Creative Wellness Retreat: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Workshops!https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar 

The Power of Color: How It Can Transform Your Mood, Energy, and Creativity Highly recommended:Come to the Sylva Solace Retreat for creative resilience: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Did you know the colors around you are shaping how you feel, think, and create—every single day? In this episode of Create-Today with Beth Buffington, we're exploring how color affects your brain, emotions, and creativity—and how to use it as a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional wellness. From calming blues to energizing reds, we break down what each of the 8 classic crayon colors symbolizes, and how to use them to spark creativity, boost confidence, and support your emotional wellbeing. Whether you're an artist, a creative entrepreneur, or just someone who wants to feel more vibrant and inspired—this episode will help you reconnect with color as a form of creative therapy. Color is more than what we see. It’s how we feel. And learning how to work with it intentionally can spark real transformation in your heart, mind, body, and soul. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • How each color affects your emotions, energy, and creative flow • Simple ways to use color as a form of emotional support and self-expression • Why your attraction to certain colors might reveal what you need • How to bring more intentional color into your day—even if you don’t consider yourself “artistic” • Why the original 8 crayon colors still matter for your adult creative life Create-Today Treasures and Resources: 💡 Mentioned in this episode:
Sylva Solace Creative Wellness Retreat: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Create Today Membership - to reach your creative goals: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Workshops! https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

E86 Rituals that Work for a Healthier and More Creative Life. Guest: Lisa Murphy, Certified Health Coach Ready to actually feel better—in your body, your mind, and your creative flow? Come to the Sylva Solace Retreat for creative resilience: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat In this insightful episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, I’m joined by healthy aging coach Lisa Murphy for a real conversation about how to take better care of your heart, mind, body, and soul as a creative. We’re sharing simple, science-backed daily rituals that help you sleep better, think clearer, stress less, and finally create with more confidence and energy. Lisa reveals her framework of “Pillars of the Day”—easy-to-implement morning and evening routines that will completely shift your day. From her “Power Down Hour” to her lemon water ritual and sacred creative scheduling, these practices are exactly what you need to start creating your life on purpose. Whether you're a burned-out artist, a side-hustling designer, or just someone who wants to stop hitting the floor running—this episode is your invitation to reset. What You'll Discover in This Episode: • Why courage comes before confidence in any life change • How to use evening rituals to boost creativity and reduce anxiety • Why screens before bed are stealing your sleep (and how to stop) • The power of lemon water, stillness, and tactile planning • The difference between habits and rituals—and why it matters • How to build momentum through micro-changes in your day • How a planner will boost productivity and peace • The truth about… time, boundaries, and creating the life you want 💡 Mentioned in this episode:
Sylva Solace Creative Wellness Retreat: https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Create Today Doodle Meditation + Planner Workshop: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Reach out to Lisa Murphy, Certified Health Coach
Get your complimentary session: https://www.lisamurphyllc.com/ Register to the Create-Today Workshops! https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar

E85 How Creative First Aid Calms Your Brain (No Meds, No Meditating) Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or creatively stuck?
 In this episode of Create-Today with Beth Buffington, you'll discover how engaging in creative flow can reset your nervous system and offer a powerful form of emotional first aid—no medication, no journaling, and no meditating required. This science-backed approach taps into the brain’s natural calming response and gives you simple, accessible tools to feel better through creativity. Whether you're doodling, crafting, baking, or making something with your hands—you’ll learn why these acts are more than hobbies. They’re healing. You’ll discover today:
 • What “creative flow” really is
 • How it affects your brain and stress levels
 • Simple ideas to get started (even if you’re “not artistic”)
 • Why creativity helps anxiety, burnout, and emotional overload
 • How to use it daily as your personal first aid kit ✨ Sponsor Breaks:
 Learn more about the Sylva Solace Retreat for creative renewal: 
 https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreatExplore the Doodle Meditation Workshop and tap into your daily flow:
 https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Subscribe for weekly creative inspiration & science-backed support.
 https://www.bdi-create.today Please Note: This episode shares science-based creative tools and activities to support emotional well-being. It is not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. If you are experiencing severe anxiety, depression, or mental health challenges, please seek help from a licensed professional. 00:00 Welcome to Create Today with Beth Buffington 00:54 The Power of Creative First Aid 02:10 Science Behind Creativity and Mental Health 04:56 Understanding Creative Flow 07:13 Sponsor Break: Sylva Solace Retreat 09:46 Creative Practices for Healing 14:31 Sponsor Break: Doodle Meditation Workshop 15:41 Embracing Creativity in Daily Life 19:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Visit www.bdi-create.today for workshops, online courses, the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

 https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Register to the “Doodle Meditation Workshop”
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Information and Registration for Sylva Solace Creative Wellness Retreat

https://www.bdi-create.today/sylva-retreat Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

The Neuroscience of Handcrafts. The POWER of your brain on ART!  Today In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington, we explore the resurgence of handcrafting in today's digital age. Beth discusses the benefits and importance of making things with your hands, highlighting how it can enhance our mental health, reduce stress, and bring joy and mindfulness into your life. Learn about the science behind tactile creativity and discover various handcrafts such as knitting, quilting, baking, and pottery that you can start today. Realize how you can rekindle the joy of creating handmade items and revive your happiness and health through this beautiful, calming practice. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic 00:51 The Impact of AI on Creativity 02:42 The Revival of Hands-On Creativity 04:50 Historical Significance of Handcrafts 08:06 Modern Science and Handcrafts 13:04 Handcrafts During the Pandemic 13:56 Reasons for the Resurgence of Handcrafts 18:06 Health Benefits of Specific Handcrafts 29:30 Conclusion and Encouragement Offerings at BDI Create.Today

Visit www.bdi-create.today for workshops, online courses, the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout Register to the “Holiday Cookie Gift Tag Workshop”

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

E83 How to Find Your Creative Voice (Even If You Feel Lost Right Now)
 To Find Your Creative Voice: Go Beyond Your Comfort Zone 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/2GB9xYBj/checkout In this episode of 'Create Today with Beth Buffington,' we talk about something thrilling and chilling… the importance of discovering and embracing your unique creative voice and how to go beyond your comfort zone to find your unique and authentic one-of-a-kind signature voice. We discuss how creatives often hide behind trends and techniques, and why stepping out of your comfort zone can be essential for true artistic growth. You’ll find practical steps for how to find your voice (if you’ve been feeling a bit mute). You’ll understand the significance of courage and vulnerability in the creative process and gather insights and encouragement to help you navigate your journey of finding and using your creative voice. Tune in to learn how to push past creative stagnancy and let your authenticity shine in your work. It’s time get inspired and let your authentic work - shine! 00:00 Welcome to Create Today with Beth Buffington 01:49 Discovering Your Unique Creative Voice 05:06 The Power of a Strong Creative Voice 07:24 Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone 12:18 Practical Steps to Find Your Creative Voice 15:30 Embracing Courage and Sharing Your Voice 18:30 Join the Create Today Community 19:58 Final Takeaways and Encouragement Offerings at BDI Create.Today

Visit www.bdi-create.today for workshops, online courses, the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡 https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Workshops to grow your creativity!

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and almost free resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

E82 - Creativity Makes You Healthier? The Science Will Surprise You! Welcome to another heart-to-heart episode of 'Create Today with Beth Buffington.' Each week you hear me say… Creativity makes you happier in heart, mind, body and soul… This week we look into the science behind this mantra. You’ll realize how creativity makes you happier and healthier. We’ll discuss studies that reveal how creativity can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing. You’ll gather unique, off-the-beaten-path creative activities you can easily do, even if you don’t think of yourself “creative”. Professional creatives will find this episode valuable to apply to your busy “creative on demand” life. This episode will illustrate the fascinating ripple effect of creative joy (when applied to your life) …and you will also learn how to prioritize your own creative time for a happier, healthier you. This episode is packed with insights and easy to use steps to help you harness the power of YOUR creativity. Tune in and get inspired in heart, mind, body and soul! 00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome 01:54 The Power of Creativity for Health and Happiness 03:38 Scientific Evidence Supporting Creativity 06:59 The Modern World's Impact on Creativity 09:36 Reclaiming Creativity as Adults 16:00 Practical Ways to Be Creative 19:52 Workshop and Membership Information 22:07 Final Thoughts and Invitation to Create Offerings at BDI Create.Today

Visit www.bdi-create.today for workshops, online courses, the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the “Going Fourwords with Your Creativity”
Workshop
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

E-81 Reframing Anxiety: Turning Worry into Creative Fuel 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching In this episode, Beth explores how the energy you give towards worry, stress, grief, and anxiety can be redirected into creative fuel…

 When you re-channel negative energy into creative energy… you create creative resilience that will help you navigate life's challenges. Discover actionable steps to strengthen your creative muscle, helping you manage stress, anxiety, and life's overwhelming moments. Beth shares her personal journey with worry and creativity, explores the power of micro creative acts, and introduces six simple ways to incorporate creativity into your daily routine. Learn how creativity can transform emotional energy into artistic expression, fostering healing and strength. Stay tuned for insights how you can start small—even if you’re not feeling creative. You’ll learn how to create a supportive environment for continuous growth. Join Beth to redirect your worry energy into creative fuel… and discover how to build a more resilient you. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:01 The Power of Creativity in Tough Times 02:23 Current Challenges and Personal Struggles 03:20 Creativity as a Coping Mechanism 05:45 Sponsor Break: Create Today Membership 07:41 Personal Story: Overcoming Worry 09:53 Redirecting Worry into Creative Energy 11:03 Simple Creative Acts for Building Resilience 17:55 Six Creative Explorations for Resilience 24:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Offerings at BDI Create.Today

 Visit www.bdi-create.today for workshops, online courses, the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Doodle Workshop!

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

E80 - What if the world has snuffed out your creative spark? 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Join host Beth Buffington on episode 80 of 'Create Today' as she dives into one of the most common questions creatives face: How to spark creativity when feeling down or stuck. We’ll discuss why you sometimes hit creative blocks and in the episode you’ll discover five practical, gentle ways to reconnect with your creative self. From changing your medium and revisiting childhood habits, to taking wonder walks and talking with creative friends, this episode is packed with tips and treasures to help you reignite your creative spark. Perfect for anyone feeling the creative doldrums, or who is overwhelmed by the weight of current events in our world. Tune in for inspiration, community, and fun ways to get back to feeling joy while you create! 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:34 Understanding Creative Block 01:59 Identifying the Causes of Creative Block 10:31 Practical Ways to Reignite Creativity 13:06 Returning to Childhood Creative Habits 17:33 Taking a Wonder Walk 23:09 Connecting with Creative Friends 26:35 Lowering the Bar for Creativity 30:23 Conclusion and Encouragement Offerings at BDI Create.Today

 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Workshops!

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:https://www.bdi-create.today

Creating Happiness: This One Habit Will Rewire Your Brain for Joy! Join Beth Buffington this week and we’ll explore the link between your brain… and the joy of creating. Discover how making creativity a daily habit can reshape your brain, reduce stress, and boost happiness. Understand the important role of creative flow in creating JOY in your life. Learn how the reticular activating system monitors your day to absorb more creative information – once your brain is rewiring itself to practice creativity. And, collect practical tips and easy prompts to seamlessly integrate creative activities into your routine. From morning doodles to creative pairing and one-word prompts, Beth encourages all her listeners to find and celebrate small wins daily. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting a creative adventure, this episode is a blueprint for unlocking your creative potential and enhancing your mental health. Come and let’s get creative together! What will you Create Today? 00:00 Introduction and Recap 02:42 The Importance of Creative Habits 03:30 How Repetition Changes Your Brain 05:43 Practical Tips for Building Creative Habits 08:12 The Science Behind Creative Habits 10:41 Long-Term Benefits of Creativity 14:08 Starting Your Creative Journey 15:09 Conclusion and Invitation 16:41 The benefits of community and how you can Create-Today Offerings at BDI Create.Today Register for the “Doodle Meditation Workshop”
 https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

 https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Workshops!

 https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

 https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

 https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

 https://www.bdi-create.today

Creativity makes you happier: The Science Behind creative joy Visit www.bdi-create.today for the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! In this episode of 'Create Today with Beth Buffington,' we explore the incredible benefits of creativity for your joy, health, and brain. Learn about the magic of 'creative flow' and how it releases feel-good chemicals that boost your mental and emotional well-being. Whether you're painting, journaling, or gardening, discover how even small creative activities can improve your mood, lower stress, and build resilience. Come… discover or rediscover the joy and science of creativity, and make sure to schedule time for it in your busy life. Let's stay creative together, my friend! 00:00 Welcome to Create Today with Beth Buffington 00:42 The Importance of Creativity 02:57 Understanding Creative Flow 04:40 The Science Behind Creative Flow 07:11 Incorporating Creativity into Daily Life 08:33 Reflecting on Your Creative Activities 11:59 Making Creativity a Habit 12:36 Conclusion and Next Steps
14:22 Finding Community and how you can Create-Today with Beth Offerings at BDI Create-Today:

Visit www.bdi-create.today for workshops, online courses, the Create-Today Membership, and personalized coaching! 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Workshops!

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

E77 - Transform your life. Prioritize creativity over your comfort zone. Guest: Rachel Burr, author, executive coach and leadership consultant Unlock Your Creative Potential with Rachel Burr. Discover how to embrace your transformational goo In this episode of Create Today with Beth Buffington. Beth welcomes Rachel Burr, an expert in human behavior, communication, and leadership development. With over 15 years of experience, Rachel shares her journey from transforming from what she thought she should do…to becoming what she felt called to do. She discusses the crucial role of creativity in leadership and the importance of self-reflection to unlock our core strengths. Rachel also introduces her new book, 'Butterfly Goo,' exploring the messy yet essential process of personal transformation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that encourages you to answer the call of your creative journey. In this episode you’ll fill your mind with thoughts on creativity, leadership, transformation, self-reflection, creative or executive coaching and personal development. Enjoy and fill your creative self to the brim! 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:24 Meet Rachel Burr: Experience and Philosophy 02:21 Rachel's Journey: From Psychology to Coaching 04:53 The Importance of Creativity in Leadership 09:09 Understanding Your Core and Self-Reflection 17:14 The Concept of Transformation and 'Butterfly Goo' 24:36 The Hero's Journey: Embrace Your Role 24:46 Engage with the Book: Takeaways and Self-Reflection 25:07 The Playground of Life: An Invitation to Play 27:25 Facing the Inner Critic: Championing Yourself 28:21 The Creative Process: Embracing Fluidity and Subjectivity 30:37 The Quest: Bravery and Transformation 32:10 Hearing the Call: Starting Your Journey 35:09 Overcoming Blocks: Taking Action 36:50 Metacognition: Managing the Gremlins 38:27 Final Thoughts: Embrace Creativity and Transformation How to find Rachel Burr and her book ‘Butterfly Goo’ Website:
https://catamentum.com/ LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelmburr/ Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/catamentum/ Rachel’s book: ‘Butterfly Goo’
https://butterflygoobook.net/ Offerings at BDI Create.Today

 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡

https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Register to the Create-Today Workshops!

https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”

https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:

https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:

https://www.bdi-create.today

E76 Unlock your potential with a Creative Process that really WORKS! In this episode of BDI Create Today, we explore the often-overlooked but crucial creative process. We will explore the common struggles like unfinished projects and creative burnout– and how having a successful creative process helps you bypass these roadblocks. This episode introduces Beth’s very own structured creative process "Going FourWords with Your Creativity" that will revitalize and refine your creativity. Join Beth as she discusses the four key phases: Revive, Realize, Refine, and Release – offering a roadmap to transform ideas into tangible masterpieces. You will learn how to enhance your productivity, improve the quality of your work, reduce stress, and foster greater innovation. NEXT you'll want to go to… www.bdi-create.today and sign up for the in-depth "Going FourWords" workshop that takes a deep dive into each of the four words – to help you navigate your creative work from inception to completion…so you can create…that next great masterpiece! Sign up for the “Going FourWords” Creative Process Workshop:
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Sign up for the Greeting Card Printing Workshop: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/5tuYYVWW/checkout 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching 
 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Process 02:15 The Importance of a Structured Creative Process 04:19 Overview of the Four Phases 05:24 Phase 1: Revive 06:34 Phase 2: Realize 07:55 Phase 3: Refine 10:20 Phase 4: Release 11:56 Benefits of a Creative Process 15:50 Learn about Create-Today Procreate Kickstart
 Offerings at BDI Create.Today Sign up for the Greeting Card Printing Workshop: 
https://www.bdi-create.today/offers/5tuYYVWW/checkout 👉 Join the Create-Today Membership to stay inspired and connect with a creative community that supports your journey. 🎨💡
https://www.bdi-create.today/membership_coaching Sign up for the “Going FourWords” Creative Process Workshop:
https://www.bdi-create.today/workshop-events-calendar Register for “Learn the Art of Procreate”
https://www.bdi-create.today/courses Tutorials and other resources at Create-Today:
https://www.bdi-create.today/almost-free-resources The Create-Today Home Page:
https://www.bdi-create.today