Valley National Bancorp
08/21/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/21/2024 08:56
Enhance your mental well-being by creating art (no skills required)
Enhance your mental well-being by creating art (no skills required)
Creativity can manifest in many ways-from finding innovative approaches to strengthen customer relationships to crafting compelling marketing campaigns or brainstorming ways to enhance internal processes. You've likely tapped into your creative side in your role, even if you don't always see yourself as creative.
Creativity isn't just beneficial for business; it's good for you, too. Beyond bolstering self-expression, research shows creativity can bolster mental health and well-being. One easy and accessible way to activate these benefits is through creating art.
Discover how art can enhance your mental health and explore simple, no-expertise-needed techniques to get started.
Why creating art is good for your mental health
Science shows us that artistic expression has numerous benefits, including:
Health experts also highlight that engaging in art can further enhance mental well-being by promoting relaxation, igniting creativity, and fostering mindfulness.
Can I create art if I'm not an artist?
Yes! You don't need to be a professional artist or know the difference between watercolor and acrylic to enjoy the mental health benefits of engaging with art. (Technically, you don't even need to make art; just looking at art has been proven to boost mental health.) The New York Times agrees, having discussed it in their article titled How the Arts Can Benefit Your Mental Health (No Talent Required).
If you are curious but still weary, take this quote from Anne Lamott about dance as added inspiration, "Don't look at your feet to see if you are doing it right. Just dance."
4 ways to create art and boost your mental health
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Doodling
The Oxford Dictionary refers to "doodling" as scribbling absent-mindedly. But did you know this absent-minded activity can relieve stress and enhance creativity?
Another benefit to doodling is that it doesn't require any special materials-use whatever writing tools you have on hand. Whether it's a pen, marker, or colored pencil, you can even add a dose of color with stamps or stencils. Think of this free-form activity as "proactive daydreaming," and use it to clear your mind when necessary.
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Coloring
Coloring isn't just for kids. According to one study, the "Adult Coloring Book Market" is predicted to reach $112.67 billion by 2031. While nostalgia may play a role, this surge in popularity is also likely due to the mental health benefits of coloring, like offering a judgment-free way to unwind.
You can go the adult coloring books route, often full of soothing designs and intricate patterns to help you relax. (Although some do add a touch of humor if that's more your vibe) Or you can always use materials you already have and use easy-to-follow tutorials to get started and get de-stressed.
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Photography
Whether documenting a view, a person, or a moment, photography provides a meaningful way to preserve your experiences. Photography offers notable therapeutic benefits, too. When shared with others, it can help build connections. When practiced solo, photography can raise self-awareness.
One easy photography technique is the noticing workout, which helps heighten your awareness of your surroundings. Its creator, Bill Keaggy, used it to compile his book 50 Sad Chairs, an entire book dedicated to chairs around the world he thought looked sad. His method is refreshingly simple: walk around, pay attention, and take pictures. For more insights on his approach, check out his TED talk.
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Painting
Painting can be a great way to disconnect and play. According to research, engaging in painting can spark delight and soothe emotions. Recently, painting has gained popularity among adults, thanks partly to Paint and Sip Nights and Paint by Numbers kits. (Fun fact: some sources say paint by numbers can be traced back to Leonardo da Vinci.)
One of the best examples of how creating art (and specifically painting) can be fun for everyone, regardless of skill level, is the viral TikTok trend where couples, friends, and family paint portraits of each other.
Bonus! Prefer to create art digitally? Use this tutorial from Adobe to learn how to get started with AI art.
Create art, together
What's more rewarding than creating art? Creating art together.
Studies show that group activities-like learning and exercising-can strengthen bonds and enhance cooperation. The same holds true for group art projects, which can amplify the benefits of creating art alone. Experience these benefits firsthand by joining us for our mural event on [DATE]. It's a great opportunity to connect with colleagues and tap into your creativity, no skills necessary.
This article is intended for informational purposes only.