Now we are at the end of January and New Year resolutions are beginning to wane, here at the Happy Healing Hut we want to bring you some inspiration. We also hope we can provide a few ideas that may tempt you to get creative.
Children are naturally creative they don’t worry about the end result because they enjoy the process so much. Participating in creative activities may be one way to connect with your inner child, lift mood and reduce symptoms of grief, depression, and anxiety.
The NHS even prescribes taking part in art for patients struggling with various mental health conditions. This is a wonderful testament to how art may be the key to wellness.
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Albert Einstein
To clarify this simply means that everyone can be creative. When you engage in a creative activity, whether that be painting, writing, singing, or even cooking, your mind is focused, sometimes referred to as ‘being in the flow’ or ‘being in the zone’. The creative process gives you time away from your thoughts, which is especially significant when struggling with your mental health.
“Anxiety is part of creativity, the need to get something out.” David Duchovny
Draw or Paint
You don’t need to be an ‘artist’ to draw or paint. To let your imagination go wild, you may find it easier to create abstract art or you could always colour in an adult colouring book. This type of colouring book is very detailed and will help you to become absorbed in the activity. It is the process of being absorbed and shutting out the rest of the world that research has shown may relieve symptoms of stress and depression.
Music
You don’t need to play an instrument to be creative with music. One musical activity anyone can enjoy is singing. Additionally, research has demonstrated that singing raises oxytocin levels which help us to become connected to others. Spending time in a group activity, such as joining a choir will also provide the opportunity to make new friends. Another way, if you are technically minded there are plenty of ways to create music online with your computer, laptop, or smartphone.
“An essential aspect of creativity is not being afraid to fail.” Edwin Land
Creative or Expressive Writing
Creative writing may seem challenging, a great way to get started is by joining a writing group. If you don’t feel ready enough to take part in a group, there are some excellent resources online, that can provide a starting point if you need inspiration. Expressive writing involves writing about your feelings, experiences, or future aspirations. One study found that when participants wrote down positive experiences, they reported greater feelings of wellbeing.
“There’s no one way to be creative. Any old way will work.” Ray Bradbury
Creative Activities Motivate You
However, you chose to be creative, scientific studies have shown it to have an impact on the brain, causing the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a feel-good chemical that can impact how happy you feel and increase levels of motivation. As anyone with mental health issues will be aware, when you feel depressed, anxious, or struggling with feelings of grief, you often don’t want to do anything. Enhancing your motivation will help you to participate in previous daily activities and establish a routine which research has indicated, your mental health will benefit.
“Everyone has an imagination which gives possibility to creativity.” Annabelle Baugh
If you feel depressed, anxious or suicidal, reach out. The Samaritans have an everyday, 24-hour free helpline 116 123
You can also contact our friendly team at The Happy Healing Hut . We will never judge you and can help arrange ongoing, long term support and counselling for yourself or someone you care about.
If you are feeling lonely or isolated contact The Healing Hubs 10-2:20pm 8-11pm 7 days a week Tel: 0300-102-1546