Relieve Stress
Stress is proven to take a toll on your mental and physical health. By making art, you can combat stress. Draw, doodle, color, sculpt, or create in any way that like for just 20 minutes and your brain will naturally reduce cortisol. Previous art experience is not required.
Boost Self-Esteem
Routinely practice art. When you do so, you build a sense of accomplishment regardless of your age in as little as 45 minutes. Creativity allows us to feel good about ourselves. Plan at least 1-2 times a week to create something or work on a personal project.
Heal
If you are facing childhood or current trauma, processing those feelings and memories may be heart through art. Journal, blog, paint, draw, or create something inspired by how you feel regarding your expereinces. Research has proved art provides a direct connection between the mind and body to help with the process of healing traumatic life experiences.
Expressive Therapy
Partake in an activity involving movement. Dance, music, drama, exercise, pottery wheel-throwing or projects that involve higher levels of activity will help you relax, release dopamine in the brain, and decrease depression, anxiety or stress.
Respond
Examine artwork online, in your community, or at a museum. Reflect on your personal interpretation of the artwork and decipher is meaning. Make connections to your own past and allow those feelings to pass through you. Connecting with other others can make you feel less alone, knowing they are creating art for you to respond to.