When we were children, most of us were given artistic licence by our elders to sculpt something out of playdough, paint a picture using only our fingers, or draw using crayons and various other materials. As time passes however, we tend not to express ourselves through art as we once did in our youth, forgetting just how powerful the activity really is. Besides the random doodle on the side of a journal, most adults deem themselves 'bad' at creating art and don't believe its worth their time. However, this is untrue and there are still significant benefits that can be achieved through art, one of life's greatest stress relieving tools. Regardless of how artistically inclined an individual perceives themselves to be, the positives are there for everyone to enjoy. Art is often overlooked as so many fail to recognise just how valuable it can be and the way in which it can help them in life.
The Therapeutic Benefits of Art
Whether you are someone who could give da Vinci a run for his money, or if you still struggle to colour inside the lines, art is an excellent way to relieve stress. Evidence for this can be seen in the 2016 study conducted by the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, who deduced that merely 45 minutes of artistic expression, irrespective of ability, can reduce stress. To investigate this further the following headings delve deeper into this theory.
Art as a Form of Self Care
Given the hustle and bustle of daily life in the modern age, we often get caught up with issues which in the grand scheme of things aren't actually that important. Most people forget (or ignore) the necessity to take some time out for themselves to reflect or unwind. With art you have the ability to take that time away from the 'noise' and by dedicating just a few minutes to your hobby each day, you will find it can boost your mood and help establish a better sense of self-care. In addition to this, you'll be left with something beautiful (or at least personal) to show for it.
Helps to Achieve a 'State of Flow'
'Flow' is described by some academics as becoming deeply engrossed in an activity, whereby you find yourself in a trance almost. Just like in meditation, flow can improve performance and lower stress levels. Other ways you are said to experience flow are through playing an instrument, partaking in sport, gardening, writing, or drawing.
Takes Your Mind off Things
When we are anxious about something it can be very hard to distract our minds, even for a few minutes. Art is a superb way of distracting the mind as it's difficult to continue ruminating about your problem when you're focused on creating. If a problem persists in your mind, it is possible to incorporate the problem into your art and transfer the feeling onto the canvas. Many people find that after engaging with art their head feels a lot clearer than it did previously.
Sketchbooks - A Great Reliever of Stress
One of the easiest and most efficient ways of easing stress through artistic means is by keeping a sketchbook. Similar to keeping a journal, a sketchbook can be cathartic an creative. Journal's are a primary form of personal art therapy and below are some great ways of managing stress through your journal.
Dream Journals
Dream journals can assist you in identifying patterns in your dreams, which may highlight areas in your life that require more attention. Simply leave a notebook and pen/pencil on your bedside locker. As soon as you wake up notate the first images, symbols, or words that spring to mind. Don't be concerned about the quality of the drawings, concentrate on the subject and the feeling.
Draw What You Feel
Draw your stress. Your drawings can be literal or abstract, depending on which helps you to express it better. Sometimes it can be hard to frame emotions which is why abstract drawings can be a helpful way of describing how you are feeling.
Keep a Gratitude Journal
So often in our lives when we fail to reflect, we don't appreciate what we have. A gratitude journal helps to avoid this scenario as not only do you have to think about what you are grateful for, but you must put it into words which requires greater effort still. By drawing places that bring you peace, or the faces of those you love, sketching in a gratitude journal can provide inner calm and leave you feeling at peace.