How Creativity Became “First Aid” in Our Latest GROW Session
by Kristina Karlsson
At this week’s GROW Book Club session, we again dived into our book of the month: Creative First Aid: The Science and Joy of Creativity for Mental Health by Caitlin Marshall - and it opened up such a beautiful conversation about how creativity supports our wellbeing.
I’d love to share some of the stories, insights, and takeaways - because they might just inspire you to pick up your own creative “first aid kit.”
Why Creativity is More Than “Making Art”
One of the biggest realisations we shared in the session was that creativity isn’t just about painting, drawing or being “talented.” It’s about using creative practices - big or small - to support our mental health.
As one member said:
“I used to think creativity meant I had to produce something worth sharing. But now I see it can be as simple as humming a tune or journaling a few lines before bed. Those little acts shift my whole energy.”
I loved this reminder: creativity is not a luxury. It’s an essential tool for resilience and joy.
Everyday Creativity as Mental Health “First Aid”
Another member shared a beautiful story about weaving creativity into family life:
“I’m in Townsville with my son this week, so I booked us into a group art session together. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about connecting and having fun. It’s amazing how grounding those shared creative moments are.”
This is the heart of Caitlin Marshall’s work - creativity can act like “first aid” for our minds and hearts. When life feels overwhelming, these small acts of playfulness can calm us, give us perspective, and even help us connect more deeply with the people we love.
The Power of Reading, Sharing & Growing Together
Something special always happens when we come together in GROW to read and discuss. As one member put it:
“The discussions help me squeeze the learning out of each book - and hearing everyone else’s reflections always inspires me to take action.”
That’s what I adore about our club. It’s not just about reading more books. It’s about creating a supportive circle where we apply the wisdom, hold each other accountable, and encourage each other to dream bigger.
Key Takeaways You Can Try This Week
Here are a few simple practices inspired by our session that you can try right now:
- Choose one small creative act this week - doodling, cooking, snapping photos, journaling - and treat it as your “first aid.”
- Notice how it impacts your mood and energy. Write it down.
- Try inviting someone you love to join you in a creative moment - connection and play go hand in hand.
- Release the need for perfection. Remember: it’s the process, not the product, that heals.
Want to Experience This for Yourself?
If this resonates with you, imagine what it feels like to be part of these conversations live - every month.
That’s what you’ll get inside the GROW Book Club:
✨ Inspiring books hand-picked for your growth
✨ Deep, guided discussions that bring the wisdom to life
✨ A community of like-minded dreamers who lift you up
✨ Gentle accountability to turn inspiration into action
As one of our members said:
“Joining GROW was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my personal growth.”
If you’d love to read, learn, and grow alongside us, I’d be so excited to welcome you.
With love 💛
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