Feeling low? Here’s how you can use art therapy to cheer yourself up

Life is a crazy roller coaster ride, constantly putting us on the edge with its twists and turns. No one can deny the bombardment of deadlines, managing work obligations, social commitments, demanding schedules and, not to forget, the constant pressure to do all and be all! Ask yourself a simple question: When did you last give yourself a break from life and do something for your own pleasure? Maybe it’s high time that you stop thinking about everything else and focus on yourself.

Art therapy allows you to explore your inner soul, tap into your emotions, and enjoy the creative process. You don’t have to be Van Gogh or someone artsy to enjoy some “me” time with art. What you create is personal, liberating, and done on your own terms. So, say hello to dopamine by trying these five mindful and creative art therapy projects.

Collage creations

Design your own dream map with mixed media like trinkets and more. Play with photographs, magazine cut-outs, comic book snips, or even pieces of embroidery on fabric! Create a personal narrative which makes your heart smile. Make a vision board of a vacation, a life-changing goal or future fantasies. No wrong or right here as long as you are enjoying it.

Shutter stories

Use your cell phone camera to pause, click, and connect with mindful moments. Sometimes when words fail us, a picture can express what words cannot. Start photo journaling life events and shared experiences through your social media stories. Why stop there? Add in a journal entry to make the stories more subjective. This visual reminder will slow down your thinking process, relieve you from stress, and uplift your spirit.

Mandala art

Immerse yourself in the intricacies of mandalas to relax and rejuvenate. Originating from Sanskrit, the literal translation of mandala is a circle representing the universe. Just look up a simple mandala art tutorial online and draw your universe in a fun-filled circle of different shapes, colours, and designs. The repetitive, steady strokes will steer your mind into a meditative state while resonating with your feelings.

Clay crafts

Ready to get your hands dirty? Turn your negative energy into creativity by joining a sculpture class or simply moulding clay at home. Working with your hands and using a physical medium will give you a sense of autonomy and the freedom to craft and create. So roll up your sleeves, knead, fold, and squeeze the clay to clear your mind, get into the moment, and find your roots in the present.

Colouring sessions

Never underestimate the power of colouring. You can colour at any age to slow down your mind and focus on simple details. Who cares if you colour outside the lines? We are not following any rules. Get yourself an adult colouring book, a box of crayons, and colour your worries away.

Before you dive into mindful art therapy, it’s best to keep in mind the following.

Create a safe space

Have a dedicated zone for creating art; be it a small corner in your room or any other nook in your home where you can find zen. This space will be your recharge station away from the chatter of daily life.

Keep the flow going

Be consistent in your creative endeavours, whether it is only a 15-minute session daily or a longer one-hour slot during the weekend. Treat it like an important meeting or a date with yourself. This will cue your brain that it is time to let go of life and get ready to unleash the artist in you.

No outsiders allowed!

Unplug, unwind, and filter out the external distractions. To tap into your inner artist, turn off your phone, your laptop, and any other disruptive influences. This is your time out from life. Don’t let any sneaky stressors creep into your mind. The magic of art lies only in full surrender.

Share your art

The awesome thing about art is that it brings people together. Get comfortable sharing your work. Start with family and friends and maybe join online communities to create and share. Keep your artistic momentum rolling by making connections and getting valuable feedback.

Creating art is a deeply personal journey. Enter the world of colours, brush strokes, images, and montages where you let yourself be free by trusting the process and forgetting about perfection. The nonverbal communication of art therapy will untangle your thoughts, reframe your perspective on things, and help you open the door to a relaxed, joyful life.

Lead image: Pexels

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