10 Ways Art Can Help Relieve Stress

In our fast-paced, constantly-connected world, it’s more important than ever to find ways to relax and de-stress. For some people, that means spending time in nature, others find exercise to be helpful, and still others find solace in music or reading. But for many people, art provides a much-needed outlet for stress relief.

Whether it’s painting, drawing, sculpting, or any other form of artistic expression, the act of creating can help to calm and focus the mind. And while the benefits of art therapy have been well-documented, you don’t need to be a professional artist to reap the rewards. Here are 10 ways that anyone can use art to relieve stress.

1. Take a break from screens.
In our day-to-day lives, we are bombarded with images from screens – computers, phones, TVs, etc. Constantly looking at these screens can cause eye strain and headaches. Spending even just 15 minutes away from screens can help to reduce eye strain and tension headaches. So put down your phone and pick up a pencil instead!

2. Get in touch with your creative side.
Many people don’t consider themselves “creative,” but everyone has a natural capacity for creativity. Expressing yourself through art can help you to tap into that hidden creative side and might just surprise you with what you’re capable of creating!

3. Focus on the present moment.
When you’re focused on creating something, it’s impossible to focus on anything else at the same time. Art can help you to focus on the present moment and clear your mind of all the racing thoughts that might be causing you stress.

4. Take a break from technology.
As mentioned above, spending time away from screens can help reduce stress and tension headaches. But even if you’re not looking at a screen, being constantly connected to technology can be stressful in itself. Stepping away from technology – even for just a few minutes – can help you to reset and recharge.

5. Connect with your emotions.
Art can be a powerful way to connect with your emotions, whether they are positive or negative emotions. Acknowledging and expressing your emotions can help you to process them in a healthy way and relieve stress in the process.

6. Communicate without words.
Sometimes words are just not enough. Art can provide a visual outlet for stressors that are difficult to put into words – whether it’s because they’re too complex or too painful to verbalize.

7. Spend time outdoors. Whenever possible, try to spend time outdoors while you’re creating art – whether it’s painting in your backyard or drawing in a park.. Being in nature has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress levels.

8. Set aside judgment. One of the most stressful things about creating art is the fear of being judged – by yourself or by others.. Remember that there is no “right” or “wrong” way to create art.. It’s all about expression and experimentation. Let go of perfectionism and give yourself permission to create something that isn’t perfect.

9. Be mindful of your materials. If you’re using toxic materials like oil paints or cleaners with strong fumes, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area. Inhaling toxic fumes can increase stress levels and exacerbate anxiety.. If possible, opt for non-toxic materials like watercolours or colouring pencils.

10.Make it a social activity. Creating art with friends or family members can turn it into a fun social activity rather than another chore on your list. And studies have shown that socializing can help reduce stress levels.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for reducing stress, incorporating art into your life is a great way to start.. And the best part is that anyone can do it!. So next time you’re feeling stressed out, try one (or all!) of these 10 ways to use art for stress relief.