Boost Your Mental Health with these 5 Creative Practices

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 29 March 2023 8 min read

Boosting your mental health can be as simple as engaging in creative activities. With a focus on creativity and mental health, this blog will introduce you to five creative practices that can help improve your mental wellbeing. Let's dive into the world of art therapy and discover how it can benefit your mental health.

1. Exploring Art Therapy

Art therapy is a therapeutic approach that combines creativity and mental health. It provides a safe space for individuals to express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences through various forms of art. By engaging in art therapy, you can foster self-awareness, improve self-esteem, and reduce stress.

1.1 Types of Art Therapy

There are several types of art therapy to choose from, depending on your interests and needs:

Visual art therapy - This includes activities like painting, drawing, and sculpting, which allow you to express yourself visually.
Phototherapy - Use photographs to explore emotions, memories, and experiences, helping you gain insight and understanding.
Drama therapy - Engage in role-playing, storytelling, and improvisation to explore emotions and personal experiences.
Dance/movement therapy - Use body movement and dance to express emotions, thoughts, and feelings, promoting physical and emotional healing.

1.2 Finding an Art Therapist

Finding the right art therapist is essential for a successful therapeutic experience. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect match:

Research local art therapists and their specialties.
Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or professionals.
Check the credentials and experience of potential therapists.
Arrange an initial consultation to discuss your needs and expectations.

1.3 Art Therapy at Home

While professional art therapy is valuable, you can also engage in creative activities at home to boost your mental health. Here are some ideas:

Keep a sketchbook or art journal to explore your emotions and experiences.
Experiment with different art materials and techniques to find what works best for you.
Set aside dedicated time for creative activities to establish a routine.
Share your artwork with supportive friends or online communities to foster connections with others.

By incorporating creativity and mental health practices into your routine, you can experience the benefits of art therapy and improve your overall wellbeing.

2. Journaling for Mental Health

Journaling is another powerful tool for improving mental health through creativity. It provides a space for self-reflection, emotional release, and personal growth. By putting your thoughts and feelings into words, you can gain insight into your emotions and experiences, helping you better understand yourself and your mental health.

2.1 Different Journaling Methods

There are various journaling methods to choose from, depending on your preferences and goals:

Free writing – Write without any specific prompt or structure, allowing your thoughts to flow freely onto the page.
Gratitude journaling – Focus on the positive aspects of your life, listing things you are grateful for each day.
Art journaling – Combine visual art and writing to express your emotions and experiences in a more creative way.
Bullet journaling – Organize your thoughts, tasks, and goals using a structured system that incorporates both creativity and productivity.

2.2 Prompts for Self-Reflection

Using prompts can help guide your journaling and encourage self-reflection. Here are some examples to get you started:

Describe a recent situation where you felt stressed or overwhelmed. What can you learn from this experience?
What are your personal strengths, and how can you use them to improve your mental health?
Write a letter to your future self, offering advice and encouragement for maintaining mental wellbeing.
Reflect on your support network — who can you turn to when you need help with your mental health?

2.3 Consistency and Benefits

Consistency is key when it comes to journaling for mental health. By establishing a regular journaling routine, you can maximize the benefits of this creative practice:

Improved self-awareness: Journaling helps you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Reduced stress: Writing about your feelings can provide emotional release and lower stress levels.
Enhanced problem-solving skills: Reflecting on your experiences and emotions can help you identify patterns and develop strategies for overcoming challenges.
Increased creativity: Journaling encourages creative thinking and self-expression.

By integrating journaling into your daily routine, you can enhance your creativity and mental health, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

3. Meditative Drawing

Meditative drawing is a relaxing and mindful way to boost your creativity and mental health. It involves creating repetitive patterns and shapes, allowing your mind to focus on the present moment and let go of negative thoughts. This form of drawing can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and foster a sense of calm and well-being.

3.1 Zen Tangles

Zen Tangles are a popular form of meditative drawing that involves creating intricate patterns using simple, structured steps. To get started with Zen Tangles, follow these basic guidelines:

Begin with a small, blank piece of paper (usually a 3.5-inch square).
Draw a border around the edges of the paper, using any shape or pattern you like.
Divide the remaining space into sections, called "strings," using curved or straight lines.
Fill each section with a unique pattern, using repetitive lines, shapes, or dots.
Add shading or color to your finished design, if desired.

The process of creating a Zen Tangle can be both calming and stimulating, as it encourages you to focus on the present moment and explore your creativity.

3.2 Doodling for Relaxation

Doodling for relaxation is another form of meditative drawing that can be practiced by anyone, regardless of artistic ability. Simply pick up a pen, pencil, or marker and start drawing whatever comes to mind. You can create abstract shapes, patterns, or even small illustrations of objects or scenes. The key is to let your hand move freely, without judgment or expectations, allowing your mind to relax and enjoy the creative process.

3.3 Resources and Inspiration

There are many resources available to help you explore meditative drawing and develop your skills. Books, online tutorials, and social media platforms can provide valuable tips, techniques, and inspiration for your creative journey. You can also join local art groups or workshops to connect with like-minded individuals and share your experiences in a supportive environment.

By incorporating meditative drawing into your daily life, you can enjoy the benefits of increased creativity and improved mental health, while nurturing a more mindful and balanced lifestyle.

4. Music and Mental Health

Music is a powerful tool for enhancing creativity and mental health. Engaging with music, whether through listening, playing an instrument, or singing, can have a profound impact on your mood, stress levels, and overall well-being. Let's explore different ways you can incorporate music into your life to boost your mental health.

4.1 Learning an Instrument

Playing a musical instrument can be an incredibly rewarding and therapeutic experience. Here are some reasons why learning an instrument is beneficial for your mental health:

Relieves stress: Focusing on playing music can help shift your attention away from negative thoughts and feelings.
Improves cognitive skills: Learning to read music and play an instrument can enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.
Boosts self-esteem: Mastering a new skill and expressing yourself through music can build confidence and self-worth.

Consider trying a new instrument, like the guitar, piano, or even a simple percussion instrument, like a hand drum. Many community centers and music schools offer affordable lessons for beginners, or you can explore free online tutorials and resources to get started.

4.2 Creating Playlists for Mood Enhancement

Listening to music can have a significant impact on your mood and emotions. Creating custom playlists can help you harness the mood-enhancing power of music, by curating a collection of songs that evoke specific feelings or memories. Consider creating playlists for different purposes, such as:

Relaxation: Soothing melodies and gentle rhythms can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Focus: Instrumental music or songs with steady beats can improve concentration and productivity.
Uplifting: Upbeat, energetic tunes can boost your mood and energy levels.

Experiment with different genres, artists, and styles to discover the music that resonates with you and enhances your well-being.

4.3 Singing and Self-Expression

Singing is another powerful way to engage with music and improve your mental health. Whether you're belting out your favorite tunes in the car or joining a local choir, singing can provide numerous benefits:

Emotional release: Singing can help you express and process a wide range of emotions, from joy to sadness.
Physical benefits: Singing promotes deep breathing, which can reduce stress and increase relaxation.
Social connection: Participating in group singing activities, like choirs or karaoke nights, can foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Embrace the power of music and explore the positive impact it can have on your creativity and mental health. By engaging with music in various forms, you can cultivate a more balanced, joyful, and fulfilling life.

5. Get Moving with Dance

Dance is a fun and expressive way to combine creativity and physical movement, making it an excellent option for improving mental health. By engaging in dance, you can release stress, elevate your mood, and enhance your overall well-being. Let's explore different dance styles and ways to incorporate dance into your life.

5.1 Dance Styles for Mental Health

There are countless dance styles to choose from, each offering its own unique benefits. Consider trying one or more of the following styles to boost your creativity and mental health:

Yoga Dance: A fusion of yoga and dance, this style focuses on mindful movement and breath, promoting relaxation and inner peace.
Contemporary Dance: This versatile style encourages self-expression and emotional release through fluid, organic movement.
Zumba: A high-energy dance fitness class that combines Latin rhythms with easy-to-follow moves, Zumba is a great way to boost your mood and get a fun workout.

Experiment with different styles to find the one that resonates with you and brings you joy.

5.2 Dance Classes and Workshops

Attending dance classes or workshops is an excellent way to learn new skills, connect with others, and experience the benefits of dance firsthand. Here are some ideas for finding dance classes near you:

Local Dance Studios: Many studios offer a variety of classes for different levels and styles, from beginner to advanced.
Community Centers: Check out your local community center for affordable dance classes and workshops.
Online Classes: If you prefer to learn from the comfort of your own home, there are numerous online platforms and resources that offer dance classes and tutorials.

Remember to choose a class that aligns with your interests and comfort level, and don't be afraid to try something new!

5.3 Dancing at Home

If you prefer a more low-key approach to exploring dance, you can always dance in the privacy of your own home. Dancing at home allows you to move at your own pace and express yourself without any pressure. Here are some tips for enjoying dance at home:

Create a dance space: Clear a small area in your living room or bedroom to give yourself room to move and groove.
Make a playlist: Curate a collection of your favorite songs or discover new tunes that inspire you to dance.
Let loose: Don't worry about perfect technique or choreography—simply move in a way that feels good and brings you joy.

Whether you're dancing in a class, a workshop, or your living room, embracing the power of dance can help boost your creativity and mental health. So, put on your dancing shoes and get moving!

If you found this blog post insightful and want to explore the therapeutic benefits of art further, don't miss the workshop 'Making Art To Help Your Mental Health' by louisbever. This workshop delves into the ways art can help improve your mental well-being and provides practical tips for incorporating creativity into your daily life.