We all used to do art projects in school, and maybe you decided pretty quickly that art was not your strong suit. Perhaps you never really got beyond drawing stick figures. Maybe you don’t feel comfortable stringing two sentences together, and you know you aren’t brave enough to try sculpting or painting. But no matter how untalented you think you are, you may want to consider taking up a creative hobby because of the many therapeutic benefits!
Why do something creative?
Even if you don’t consider yourself a great “artiste,” there may be something artsy you’ve always wanted to try. Give it a go, because:
• Creating art relieves stress. Whether you are painting a picture or deciding how to frame your next photo, it is a way to distract your brain from your usual thoughts. Many people have compared creating art to being in a meditative state.
• Creating art keeps your brain sharp. Doing something new and creative stimulates your brain to grow new neurons and gets the left side of your brain communicating with the right side of your brain. It also increases dopamine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that helps with motivation and concentration. It has even been found that art can be helpful for people with serious brain disorders such as dementia.
• Creating art gives you a feeling of accomplishment. Your painting may never be a main attraction at the Louvre, but it certainly can make you feel like your time has been well spent. And you may be surprised at just how good it turns out!
• Creating art gives you a way to express your feelings. Sometimes it can be hard to say what you are thinking, but these thoughts and feelings can come through in your latest painting or poem.
You don’t have to be Picasso to make art, and you don’t have to stick to painting or sculpting. Try crochet, writing fiction, or make up your own new creative hobby! Creative hobbies are a great way to reduce stress and give you a feeling of accomplishment. The staff at Wasatch Crest Treatment in Heber, Utah, wants you to be healthy, happy, and creative. Call (800) 385-3507 today!
