Art as therapy?

I am another kindred art spirit. After my hsc I studied art  for a year then changed my mind and did nursing.I've been a nurse for 37yrs and although I don't regret it,I miss my creative side.When breast cancer came back a second time(last year)I decided to make BIG changes.I left my job of 16yrs and also moved house-downsized.The move has enabled me financially to retire if I want.I now want to get back to painting,photography,sewing-all my creative outlets.Liz,I understand how you are feeling about returning to work and not belonging.As soon as I finished chemo I wanted to "get back on my horse"and return to work.It was so important for me to get back normality and prove I was ok.My colleagues were very supportive but it's hard getting around in a bandana on your bald head,smiling and answering questions about your hair progress.After a year,I had a feeling of not belonging and a sense of going in another direction with my life.I haven't worked for the last 3 mths and it's great,don't miss it at all.So follow your gut feeling as it's usually right.I hope you are through your treatments Chris- are you ok now?

                                       Tonya xx