Creativity has always been a stress outlet for me. Getting “in the zone” stills my mind. Whilst I’m painting, drawing, playing music or colouring I’m not thinking of ANYTHING ELSE.
Art is an underrated form of therapy. People are too busy to sit down and paint a pretty picture. Yet, we can spend hours scrolling through social media. We neglect allocating enough time for ourselves.
Creative therapy puts you first. Like the sound of that? Head over to Pretty Pots for some you-time!
I’ve visited Pretty Pots in Milford, Staffordshire twice now. Each time I’m astonished at how quickly the time goes! This is because it’s easy to become absorbed in creative activity that we do not pay attention to our surroundings.
Pretty Pots provides a whole range of pottery, from minimalist mugs to elephants. Although, you don’t just have to paint pots. They have other workshops including crochet and felting. It’s a lovely place to socialise with family and friends. You can even treat yourself to a cup of tea and a cake whilst you’re there!
I last went in the midst of deadlines during my third year of university. How did I make the time to paint pots you might ask. Creativity is self-care. Making time to look after ourselves is important, no matter how busy your schedule is.
Benefits of creative self-care:
Mindfulness – Focusing on a creative task focuses our mind and still our thoughts.
Buddhists say we are addicted to thinking, which causes suffering. We’re constantly worrying about tomorrow, or thinking about what to have for dinner.
Creativity gives our mind a rest and brings us back to the present moment. This can help relieve stress and depression.
Producing something that is YOURS – how long has it been since you created something? If your answer is high school art lessons, it’s time to pick up a paintbrush!
Having fun! Getting creative is a huge mood-booster. We tap into a part of ourselves that is child-like and playful. There’s no harm in being a child for a bit, especially when the stresses of adult life become too much.
Finding a creative outlet is worth taking the time for. Whether it’s painting or even cooking!
Well, what if you don’t have a creative bone in your body?
I highly doubt that! We’re all creative beings in one way or another. Whether it’s painting landscapes or gardening, there’s something out there for everyone.
Remember, you don’t have to be the next Picasso. It’s not the final result that matters but the practice of creativity itself!
Recipe for Mindfulness 