The Sun has now moved to Gate 1, SELF-EXPRESSION. In the I-Ching this hexagram is called THE CREATIVE.

The need for SELF-EXPRESSION is no joke. The people I know who have this energy defined are truly at a loss when they are not EXPRESSING themselves. When I say at a loss, I mean they feel heavy, burdened, and sad. For many, this need for SELF-EXPRESSION can specifically mean a CREATIVE CONTRIBUTION. Not surprising really since the other half of this channel is just that, the energy for making a CONTRIBUTION to this world.

But seriously, if you have the Gate of SELF-EXPRESSION defined, especially by the Sun you must strive to always have a satisfying outlet for CREATIVE SELF-EXPRESSION. If this element is missing from your life it can weigh heavily on your soul.

To be clear, this doesn’t have to be your J-O-B. It certainly doesn’t need to be your identity. According to science, hobbies make you happy, especially if they provide that oh so necessary creative outlet.

How important is SELF-EXPRESSION to you? Do you see how important it is to the people around you? Do you regularly EXPRESS yourself in CREATIVE ways? Why not? When was the last time you EXPRESSED your soul to the world? Does that question tug at your heart or turn you off entirely? Do your children have a creative outlet? If so, do you see how it benefits them? Why wouldn’t it benefit you if you had something similar in your life? When was the last time you drew a picture, invented a strikingly beautiful and delicious recipe, danced, told a story, decorated your house, or wrote a song?

How do you EXPRESS yourself?