I think you will agree that in our fast-paced world, finding ways to manage anxiety and improve mental health is crucial. One powerful yet often overlooked tool? Art! Yes art! Let’s look at how getting creative can lead to a healthier mind.
A Personal Journey
Art has given me greater meaning in life and helped me understand more about myself. It allows for a deeper understanding of my emotions and responses. In the past, I often felt something was missing, filling that gap with shopping, obsessing over clothes online, or struggling with weight comfort eating and drinking.
Thankfully over 14 years ago, I overcame my perceived artistic block and haven’t looked back. Phew! I started by experimenting with different paints and mark-making tools. A fabulous local art teacher taught me the freedom to find my own style. Later, I rediscovered the joy of working with clay, guided by another great teacher who gave me the confidence to explore ideas, techniques, shapes, and glazes.
The very act of creating – whether it’s painting, craft, writing, DIY, or anything using your hands ( and feet) and your imagination – increases our self-awareness and opens us to new ideas and experiences.
World Mental Health Day
This week, on October 10th, we observed World Mental Health Day. It’s worth noting that the World Health Organisation recognises art as beneficial for anxiety and mental health in several ways.
10 Ways Art Boosts Mental Health
- Stress Buster: Creating art is like a mini-holiday for your brain. It lowers stress hormones, helping you to feel more relaxed.
- Emotional Outlet:. Express those difficult feelings through colours, shapes, and textures.
- Present Moment Awareness: Lose yourself in the creative process. It’s mindfulness in action, it’s surprising how we just switch off from the everyday.
- Confidence Booster: Just by completing a project however big or small is an achievement! Perfect for your self-esteem to soar.
- Brain Gym: Flex those mental muscles! Art challenges your brain in new ways, providing a healthy distraction from anxious thoughts.
- Social Connector: By Joining an art class or sharing your creations with a friend helps you to build connections and battle isolation through creativity.
- Self-Discovery Journey: Each arty project reveals something new about yourself. It’s like therapy, but more colourful!
- Neural Pathway Builder: Learning new artistic skills helps form fresh neural connections. It’s like upgrading your brain’s operating system.
- Flow State Facilitator: Have you ever lost track of time when doing something you enjoy doing? That’s the “flow state” – a blissful condition where self-consciousness melts away.
- Symbolic Healer: Turn your struggles into art. It’s a powerful way to process emotions and visualise personal growth.
Finally remember, you don’t need to be a Matisse to benefit. Whether it’s doodling, colouring, or some expressive form of construction – find what speaks to you and let your creativity flow!
Join Our Upcoming Class
If any of this has resonated with you and you’re looking to kick-start or revisit your creativity, join me for my new fun art class:
Play Create Be Free Mindful Art Class – Starting November 12th
- Date: November 12th
- Time: 7-9 pm
- Location: Cloud Nine Studio, Chipping Norton
- Booking link:
Read here about the Play Create be Free Art Class
Booking is now open. Watch out for more details soon!
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