If you’ve ever lost track of time engaging in a creative pursuit, you know how soothing putting your creative brain to work can be.
Adults are increasingly taking up activities such as coloring books and apps, crafting and music. Turns out, this healthy trend can improve mental health by providing a positive outlet for stress.
Outside of being utilized as a self-care practice, being creative can help you shift to a more positive-centered lifestyle. For example, art can be a therapeutic tool, used in professional settings to help those with depression, substance use disorder, Alzheimer’s and more.
Creativity can manifest itself in everyday life, not just when we’re sitting down to paint a picture or knit a sweater. You can be creative in your meal preparation, in problem-solving at work or in how you interact with your family – the possibilities are endless. The more you flex your creative muscle, the easier it is to apply creativity in everything you do.
Girija Kaimal, assistant professor in the creative therapies department at Drexel University, discovered that utilizing 45 minutes of time to be creative throughout your day can actually help reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
If you’re ever feeling anxious or stressed, consider letting your creative juices flow. You can even host a party dedicated to artistic expression. Set up adult coloring books and colored pencils or provide easels with paint and paper. Make it a monthly ritual that brings people together to learn a new skill by asking friends with expertise in a certain area to teach for a night.
There’s no telling the joy you can find just by allowing yourself to channel your creative side. How do you incorporate creativity into your daily life? Share with us in the comments.
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