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How often do you find yourself saying ‘I’m stressed’ when family and friends ask about your day? You probably say it without even realizing it. Stress doesn’t go away unless you banish it from your life, but that is sometimes easier said than done.
Some people find relief in writing a journal, others take up a new sport, but what a lot of people do not know is that painting and drawing is a brilliant stress reliever. Letting your creative juices flow takes your mind off the stresses of life and tunes you into the here and now.
So, how exactly can you use art therapy to relieve stress? It is all about setting the right tone and removing everyday distractions from the room leaving you focusing on the present.
Art Therapy Step-By-Step Stress Relief Guide
1) Purchase a Fun and Funky Sketch Book
You are more inclined to use your sketchbook if it is fun and colorful. Decorate your sketchbook to let your personality shine through and I assure you you’ll draw in it more and more.
2) Turn off Your Cell Phone
Enough is enough! It is ok to ignore the outside world for a bit of ‘me time’ even if it is just for an hour now and then. Likelihood is that whoever is calling you just wants to talk to you about work or what you are having for dinner… all of which can wait, don’t you agree?
3) Put Paint Brush to Paper
The trick is not to think too much. There will be drawings that are right up your alley and you will be showing them off to all of your friends and family. Other paintings will stay private and personal and that is completely ok. Draw what comes to mind and do not hold back!
4) Brain Fog?
What is meant to be a relaxing exercise can seem like a nightmare when the tone is set and you have no idea what to draw. Don’t let this bother you and check out these cool sketchbook ideas for a bit of artistic inspiration.
How Will You Benefit From Art Therapy?
There will be a pattern of things you want to draw over a long period of time. This might bring an unattended issue to your attention that has been unknowingly bothering you. For example, if you are drawing lots of pictures of your partner’s cat, and you are constantly sneezing because of your cat allergy, you can address this with your partner as it must be affecting you more than you thought. It is well known that children express their fears through art and you might do the same.
Without analyzing your drawings too deeply, just enjoy the motions and meditation that comes with artwork. It can really bring a smile to your face, so do not hesitate to give it a go.
