In my last post, https://revivadesigns.co.uk/how-to-improve-your-well-being-in-nature/ I talked about how spending time in nature can boost your well-being. Today, I want to explore how doing arts and crafts can really help improve your mental health. The beautiful thing about art and craft activities is that they can be anything you like – from quick doodles scrap paper to working on a detailed project that takes months to finish.
It could be for five minutes, it could be a couple of hours; each time you prioritise creative activities, you could benefit for one or all of the following –
Creative activities share a wealth of core skills; embracing these activities regularly not only enhances your expertise in your chosen techniques but can also boosts your mood – what a beautiful victory that is! My graphic below highlights just a few of the skills you could develop – just think how these skills will benefit you in daily life!
how will you boost your mental health?
If you want some creative time alone…
You could purchase a kit to work on – some people find it reassuring to follow instructions and work towards a set outcome.
You could follow a tutorial, eg onYouTube, tailoring resources to your budget. I love this account for effective art from simple beginnings. The tutorials on this channel have a wonderful balance of freedom and instruction. I have thoroughly enjoyed following along and felt very proud of my finished pieces!
If you don’t like following instructions or what others suggest, you could create by playing freely with your materials, without direction or any expectation of the outcome. Some of you may love the freedom this brings, others may find they feel uncomfortable with no directions at all…remember, there’s no right way to be creative!
If you want your creative time to be social time…
You could join an online community, such as www.ravelry.com a haven for yarn crafters
You could take part in a charity “crafternoon” – search on Google to find out what is currently happening locally or online.
Join the WI https://www.thewi.org.uk/
Take a look at your local u3a/active retirement group – Google to see what is in your area.
Find online and in-person activities and events advertised on Facebook.
Visit your local library to find out about local groups and events.
Check out community boards at the local supermarket – local events are often advertised.
Take a look at www.stitchnbitch.co
Whatever you choose, please prioritise enjoying it! Depending on your mindset, you may appreciate the challenge of something new or you may prefer to play it safe. Doing what feels right to YOU, with others or alone, will enable you to feel the benefit – I would love to hear what you get up to…please leave me a note in the comments!
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