Postpartum Musings: The Artist within You

I felt inspired by a quote I saw at a gallery I was recently at when my family was in town visiting. Rumi wrote, “Inside you there’s an artist you don’t know about.” And it reminded me of a lesson I learnt from a past supervisor: During hard times, there is always a stronger version of you waiting to be born, that can help you cope. That “artist” isn’t just about creativity — it’s about your inner strength, your resilience, your ability to create something meaningful out of moments that sometimes feel impossible. Inside you, right now, there’s a creative, resilient, wise part of you that may be just waiting for a chance to come to life.

Postpartum is demanding. Between the hormonal shifts, physically healing, feeding around the clock, and lack of sleep- you are literally creating a new version of yourself. It makes sense why so many new moms come into my therapy room wondering who they even are anymore. But it is in those moments that the quiet, powerful artist within you is at work. She’s shaping you, steadying you, helping you find your way through.

Here are a few ways to connect with her, especially during harder times:

1. Trust the process, even when it’s messy.
   Art — and growth — rarely happen in straight lines. It’s okay if your days feel chaotic or your emotions feel all over the place. You are still becoming. You are still building something beautiful.

2. Let yourself be unfinished.
   You are a work in progress — and that's exactly how it’s meant to be. Growth and healing do not require perfection. They only asks for willingness. Give yourself permission to be in the middle of the story.

3. Your creativity is healing.
   When you give your inner artist even a tiny bit of space, you’re giving yourself an outlet to process everything you’re experiencing. It can help ease anxiety, lift your mood, and remind you that you are more than just your responsibilities.

Your inner artist is already at work.

You are creating something extraordinary: a new life, a new version of yourself, a deeper strength that will carry you forward.
Even in the hard moments.
Even when you can’t see it yet.
You are stronger than you know.