Creating art is adding sunshine to the overcast areas of your soul.

Using art to improve emotional well-being is something that I truly believe in and I have definitely noticed an improvement in my own emotions after creating some form of art. Depending on my mood I may paint, draw, or journal. Other days I may I dabble in textile arts such as sewing, knitting, and crocheting. Because my interests are so varied I’m not an expert in any of them, but that’s okay. This is all about creating something that makes me feel good so I’m not looking for perfection. There are some exercises that I feel are extremely helpful depending on your preference and I will list them below.

• If you are a more visual person try drawing yourself as a tree. Draw your roots as descriptions of your good qualities and draw your leaves as things you are trying to change.
• If you prefer the written word try writing a fairy tale starring YOU. Create your own happily ever after. You can illustrate it, too, if you want.
• Maybe photography is your thing. If so, take pictures of things you believe to be beautiful and then use them to make a collage. Frame and hang it somewhere that you will see it often. *Remember this is for you so don’t worry whether or not someone else will like it. Create what makes your soul happy.

The website livehappy has a list of 7 benefits of art therapy. You can see that post here. Those benefits include improving self-esteem and easing stress and other chronic health conditions.

I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. How do you feel about using art to improve emotional well-being? What are your favorite forms of art? Do you feel better after creating?

Posted in response to: RDP Friday! Art