Follow the sun...

Reader, do you ever notice how, when a new month begins on the same day a season changes, there’s a different energy in the air?

Perhaps it’s the nature of newness, the possibility of beginning again, or simply the gentle reminder that this is an opportunity to finally do one thing you’ve been putting off.

Here in Australia, we’re moving into spring.

I have a love/hate relationship with spring: I love the blooms, the sun warming the back of my neck, the way flowers pop up everywhere, and the lightness in people’s step… but I also battle allergies and my hay fever is the worst in spring (hello nasal spay and anti-histermines!).

Together, these are a reminder that multiple truths can coexist: joy and discomfort, beginnings and endings, growth and release.

In the Permission to Play group, we have a weekly focus called a 'springboard prompt'. This week, we are embracing these seasonal changes, and I thought it would be worthwhile sharing some of these invitations for creativity with you Reader.

1. Notice the light: Where has it shifted? Which corners of your home are brighter or dimmer than before?
2. Observe nature: Are things blooming, falling, or changing in ways unique to your environment? Pause, breathe, and really take them in.
3. Write it out: Use one or more of these journal prompts to spark reflection:

• “What subtle signs of the season changing do I notice: sounds, scents, light, or feelings in my body? How do they affect my mood or energy?”
• “As the season changes around me, what inner season do I feel right now? How does it mirror or contrast with what’s happening in nature?”
• “What is something I am ready to release with this season’s change, and what fresh intention or newness would I like to welcome in?”

For me, one intention for this season was to keep a sketchbook in my car, just for quick 10-second sketches or mark-making on the go. It’s a small, joyful way to stay connected to my art making, my surroundings and to ensure I make space for creativity as often as possible.

Perhaps you’ll discover your own little ritual as well, Reader? Reply and let me know if you have something in mind for your change in seasons.

If you’d love more prompts, ideas, and a space to share your reflections with like-minded awesome humans (it’s no lie, these are the best of the best people, haha!), I’d be delighted to welcome you into the PTP Community.

It’s a place where we prioritise noticing, reflecting, and creating together, holding space for both the big and small things in life, and ensuring your creative expression is entirely about you and your experience throughout the seasons of life.

​👉 [Join the PTP Community here for FREE]

Here’s to stepping into this new season with curiosity and creativity.

Recent Readings

I am a reasonably slow reader, but I love to read. Whilst university takes up most of my reading time at the moment (hello, understanding the Hippocampus!), I’d like to start introducing you to some recent books I have been enjoying.

‘The House that Joy Built’ was recommended to me a couple of years ago by my friend Erin. I had borrowed it from the library several times without ever getting around to reading it. However, the last time, I finally started, and then I couldn't stop.

Beautifully written, with realness and rawness, about the loss of self and how toxic relationships and self-talk can cause one to shrink. And how creativity and play are the path to learning and loving yourself again.

​Check our more from the author, Holly Ringland here.​

If you made it this far, I would love to hear what you think of this newer style of email. However your week flows from here, Reader, I hope there are moments of joy and creativity.

Until soon.

Delphie Joy xox

PS: Permission to Play is always open, it is priced for accessibility because I believe greatly in the world being a better place when people are safe to express and explore. In saying that, I happily offer payment variations depending on folk's circumstances. It is free to join the group and try it out and if cost is a barrier to joining full time, reach out and let me know. Can't wait to welcome you!

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Loving these musings? I pour a lot of heart and soul into these emails. If you think someone you know might enjoy, forward it on!

Thanks for being here and sharing,

DelphieJoy xox

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I live and work on the traditional lands of the Jaggera and Turrabal First Nations People. I honour and respect this Country and the Elders, past, present and emerging and thank them for their continued care.

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