Life is hard, plain and simple. Just when you think you have things under control, someone or something throws a wrench into your life plan and it’s so darn hard to keep up the happy and positive outlook. We know that having an optimistic attitude can help us through those rough patches, but some of us need a little more than relying on our own thoughts to run around our heads.
I heard a woman speak a few years back about her organization, I Still Matter. They “promote recovery through expressive arts, community outreach and education” using peer-support and peer mentoring. I’ve attended some of their support groups and have personally discovered there is something very therapeutic about the freedom to create. Last week we revealed our “hidden” selves by creating masks. Very powerful and a great way to reveal and cope with the emotional side of life. Click here to link to an article about I Still Matter è http://arbus.com/still-matter-still-color/
There are lots of creative outlets that may help you reduce stress. You don’t have to be the next Picasso. Just spend some time pursuing any type of creative activity and see where it takes you. Find something that makes you happy and build that into your daily routine. Here are some simple (and by no means complete) suggestions:
1. Music. Do you sing or play a musical instrument? Perhaps now is the time to pick that guitar back up!
2. Painting or drawing. There is something calming about drawing or painting. Even for those of us who don’t consider themselves very good artists, drawing (or doodling) can be therapeutic. Grab a new box of crayons or colored pencils and get started! Try “Zentangling” if you haven’t tried it. Very relaxing!
3. Gardening. This is creative because you are creating a landscape, a visually appealing area. Working in the garden day after day and watching the plants grow is very calming. What will you grow, flowers or veggies?
4. Knitting or sewing. If you didn’t learn how to knit when you were young (like I did), there are many “how to” books out there. Don’t let that stop you!
5. Writing. Pick up a pen and just write. Write a children’s book, a memoir, reflect on your day, journal or start your own blog.
Other ideas might include baking, sculpturing, coloring, scrapbooking or woodworking. There are many more ideas that come to mind. Think outside the box and let the creative juices flow!