We are living in some highly stressful times. From the pandemic to inflation, life has taken a toll on all of us. Even as a Jesus lover and follower, it’s often hard for me not to become stressed from time to time. Sometimes I have been so stressed out, that when someone invited me to do something fun, I declined because I was “too stressed.”😩 Of course, this way of thinking creates a never-ending cycle of burnout. That’s why self-care is so important. It is vital to our mental, physical, and spiritual health. Whether it’s crocheting, coloring (one of my faves), or simply reading a book, each of us must dedicate time to explore the things that bring us joy.❤️
As children, many of us enjoyed the pleasure of indulging in our favorite creative hobbies with reckless abandon. Sadly, some of us have allowed adulthood to rob us of the simple joy of creating.
Research has shown that creative activities such as painting, woodworking, and gardening, reduce cortisol, the stress hormone.
So why don’t many of us use these fun things to take the edge off life? It’s because we neglect ourselves in order to focus on “adulting.” It’s time for us to rethink adulting and include the fun stuff!😍
Is there some creative activity you have allowed to fall to the wayside due to adulting? Well, if you are looking to relieve stress and engage in some true self-care, you may want to revisit your creative side.
Be free to explore creative endeavors that you’ve never thought of doing. If you’ve already mastered the art of creating to relieve stress, kudos to you! Keep up the good work. If you haven’t, here are a few suggestions to get you going:
1. Painting/Drawing
Even if you are far from becoming the next Picasso, finger painting or brush stroke painting can help you to relax and unwind. Healthline reports that drawing can also be a coping tool for anxiety.
You can stock up on the supplies you need at your local arts and crafts store. And you don’t have to worry about being “perfect.” You can draw, doodle, or create digital images you like for sheer enjoyment. And who knows, there may be a buyer out there who could turn your hobby into profit.
2. Coloring
Coloring seems to be the throwback craze for adults these days. And I must admit, it is on “my favorite things” list for sure. The best thing about it is, you don’t have to break the bank to do it. You can find all sorts of coloring sheets for adults online, and grab inexpensive crayons, markers, or colored pencils from your local dollar store.
Give yourself some time to be a kid again by coloring. One of my ultimate favorite coloring books is Whatever is Lovely: A Coloring Book for Reflection and Worship, published by Waterbrook. You can de-stress and get your praise on at the same time!
3. Scrapbooking
We live in a digital age, but scrapbooking and old-fashioned photo albums will never go out of style. On her blog, Close to My Heart, Jeanette Lynn outlines five reasons that scrapbooking is good for your health.
Although this hobby can become a bit expensive, you can keep your costs down by using t-shirt material or fabric, inexpensive construction paper, and newspaper, as well as outdoor elements such as leaves. There really are no limits to what you can use to create.
4. Woodworking/Metalworking
Carving and creating art with your hands using wood or metal can be a very relaxing experience. Remember woodshop class in middle school??? We don’t have to leave it in the past. Look for a local woodshop class if you’re interested in learning this skill. Mahogany Inc, a commercial woodworking and construction business, outlines the health benefits of woodworking.
Metalworking is another skill that can be used to create fantastic art pieces, all while releasing tension! Hobbyfinder.com is a great place to start if you are interested in metalworking.
5. Jewelry Making
Jewelry making can be both stress-reducing and income-producing. Try your hand with simple bracelets or necklaces and work your way up to creating more complicated pieces. Just like painting and drawing, there is always a buyer who would love to purchase your creations. This could also be a multi-generational activity for family night. Explore some social media groups of jewelry crafters to learn the ins and outs and get support.
6. Pottery
Like woodworking and metalworking, pottery is a skill that may take a bit of practice, but it also offers many health benefits. Contact your local community college for information on classes. And remember you can also learn on Youtube for free!
7. Gardening/Planting
A recent study shows that gardening just two times a week can provide great health benefits and relieve stress. If you are a green thumb or an aspiring green thumb, digging, potting, and caring for plants and flowers can be just the type of relaxation you need. In addition, plants and flowers can add beauty to the inside and outside of your home.
I hope you take some time to try some of these suggestions! Drop me a line and let me know how it goes.
Until next time,
Grow You. God’s Way.
Sherrhonda❤️