Why Art is a Form of Self-Care
In today’s stressful world, it’s never been more important to stop, take a deep breath, and look after your mental health. Self-care is different for everyone – for some it’s having a skincare routine, others it’s reading a book, or even doing some retail therapy (guilty!).
We believe art and painting is a form of self-care that comes with so many benefits that are good for the soul. Art is really more than just a craft!
Now, you don’t need to go to Kourtney Kardashian’s POOSH website to find out about art and its benefits for your wellbeing, just keep scrolling to see why!
MENTAL HEALTH SEEN BETTER DAYS? HERE’S WHY ART WILL HELP.
To put it simply, painting is considered a great way to improve your well-being. It enables you to manage and regulate your emotions, as well as handle psychological distress – sounds like a therapist! Mental health researcher Dorien Eising found that painting alleviates anxiety, depression and stress. And here’s another bonus -people who have engaged with painting experience a boost in confidence, and feel more engaged and resilient.
*immediately starts to check paint and sip sessions*
IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU AND THE CANVAS, BUT MAINLY YOU!
Did you know that when you create art, you are making decisions about what you like and feel? When you paint an artwork, you make choices which means paying attention to your inner self, like the colours you use!
At our studios, we always encourage self-expression in a genuine and non-judgmental environment. So much so that you can paint whatever you’d like in a session!
SO, YOU MADE A MISTAKE? YOU CAN DO THAT HERE!
Let’s be realistic, most of us are not full-time artists. Through art, you can embrace your own imperfections and express yourself in an authentic way. There are no expectations when it comes to art so don’t worry if you make a mistake (we always make some!)!
GOODBYE WORK BRAIN, HELLO CAREFREE & COLOURFUL MINDS!
Perhaps one of the reasons why painting has always been a part of culture is that it allows the imagination to run free – it’s giving Bridge to Terabithia vibes, before the sad part. Painting involves a succession of mental activities, from deciding what to paint down to choosing the right brush size and type. Ultimately, painting enhances the brain’s ability to interpret and translate the mental image you have onto the canvas!
ART IS YOUR WINGMAN
Art really allows us to connect with others and eases the feelings of isolation and loneliness – this a sign to log out of Netflix on a Friday night. Creativity is inclusive to everyone and it can also be fun to make art with others.
It bridges human experiences, allows for an exchange of stories and evokes emotions – powerful! Even if you attend a session on your own, you’re experiencing the same thing as others in the room – build that connection!
For something that’s done on an easel, painting does a person a whole lot of good in the grander scheme of things. Try adding art to your self-care routine and book into one of our sessions today! Ps – if you’re not sure what to expect from a paint and sip class – here is an insight.
