Anxiety, Art, and Self-Care

Art is Self-Care

I had a big trigger earlier this week and have felt anxious and stressed since then. I've had a hard time sleeping, I've had trauma-related dreams, and I've just felt on edge for the last few days. I've been working on a big art project, which has been so much fun, but it hasn't let me just work without purpose. 

In thinking about my self-care I'd prioritized moving my body (even going for walks when it's chilly - something I'm not a fan of). I've practiced stretching and trying to be gentle. I've journaled. But, my mind just holds things. 

So, this evening I decided to create art for myself and drew out a Boston frond. Boston ferns are some of my favorite ferns. They're the perfect porch plant. This was a fun piece to work on. I like the purple in the darker areas of the leaves. 

Something that I try to remember about making art is that it is supposed to be enjoyable. I'm supposed to have fun while I'm doing that. Play helps us cope with difficult situations, improves self-esteem, builds curiosity and confidence. It isn't just important for children, play is important for adults. I enjoyed playing with the colors of this piece, using my new watercolor brush set, and painting something green. All of my problems aren't solved by my Boston frond, but it definitely helped.