Let Your Creativity Shine - Activities to Boost Your Wellbeing
Think of creativity as an underused superpower. Studies show that creative outlets can reduce anxiety and depression. These outlets allow people to release their thoughts and emotions and turn them into something tangible. The power of creativity is shown to truly nurture your overall wellbeing. Psychologists have long studied the link between creativity and mental health. According to research by Dr. Shelley Carson, a psychologist at Harvard University, “engaging in creative activities can lead to increased happiness and overall well-being. Inducing positive outlets can help you get your thoughts out of your head and into whatever exercise you choose.”
Writing
Sometimes, you just need to transfer your thoughts from your head to paper. It may seem cliché, but keeping a diary or journal can help you sort out your thoughts and emotions. Next time you find yourself feeling angry, hurt, or overwhelmed, try grabbing a paper and pen and writing down all your emotions. Don’t be hard on yourself - this doesn’t have to be perfect or neat. Just allow yourself to release each emotion through the ink of the pen. See how you feel after! You may find a solution to your problem, you may find yourself feeling lighter on your feet, or you may feel calmer. Writing allows you to become more self-aware. Maybe you’ll realize why you’ve been feeling a certain way. Writing in a notebook can help you to feel a sense of stability in the midst of chaos.
Dancing
Believe it or not, dancing can be a powerful tool to boost your mood and decrease symptoms of depression. According to a UCLA Health study, “free-flowing dance produced positive mental health benefits among participants. A huge majority—98%—of all dancers said the practice improved their mood.” Dancing can also provide you with confidence and increase your endorphins naturally! You can dance to express feelings, or you can try to dance to happy music in order to boost your overall mood. Turning on a happy tune is the first step - see how you feel afterward! And don’t worry, this doesn’t have to be done in front of people. You could dance with friends or alone in your bedroom, whichever you prefer!
Painting
Whether it's using watercolor paints or sketching with pencils, painting can be a good exercise to try when you want to get out of your head. This activity allows you to take a break from your own mind and utilize art to express anything you're feeling. Think of the best artists to ever live, and think of your favorite paintings in the world. All of these masterpieces were created with intense passion and emotion. You never know… maybe you’ll be the next Picasso! Regardless, painting can increase dopamine and reduce stress, allowing you to take control of your emotions and feel free through the expression of art.
Cooking
Do you have a friend who cooks or bakes when they’re sad? The Wall Street Journal reported that psychologists believe that cooking and baking are therapeutic because they fit a type of therapy known as "behavioral activation.” Cooking or baking can help increase concentration, boost self-esteem, and leave you feeling more relaxed and reassured. Plus, if you want to take this activity to the next level, you could have your friends over and cook for them! Interacting with people helps you to feel less alone and more connected to those around you. People aren’t meant to go through life alone, and who wouldn’t want a nice home-cooked meal? This could lift your spirits and reduce any negative emotions. You may even find an outlet through the people you talk to as well. You’re not alone!
Remember to give yourself time to enjoy these creative outlets. It’s important to note in the business of everything, that it’s okay, even necessary, to slow down and relax. Allow your creativity to shine and embrace it all!
By Virginia Shea
https://www.verywellmind.com/how-dancing-helps-your-mental-health-5206963