5 Ways To Introduce Therapeutic Creativity Into Your Life

We often think of therapy as heavy work: confronting our traumas, fears and anxieties in the name of growth. This is all true AND therapy can also be colorful, energizing and creative.

Below, you’ll find 5 ways to cultivate little moments of therapeutic creativity in your daily life.

1 - Be curious about the world around you

The color of a bird’s wings, the smell of a desert rain, the softness of a favorite blanket. These are all things we naturally enjoy and can also be therapeutic when we stop to notice and deeply appreciate them. This is a form of grounding, drawing us into the present moment.

2 - Use a coloring book

Art connects you with a part of your brain that helps you process your environment in a different way. This might look like unwinding from a long day or taking a few minutes to sit with yourself. In addition, the act of creating can bring joy! Doing something just for fun and no other reason invites playfulness and creativity.

3 - Learn something new

A new recipe, word, equation, language, or joke - big or small, learning something new lights up a part of the brain that often lays dormant in our day to day lives. This may allow you to feel more connected to yourself and your interests, which often reduces anxiety and depression.

4 - Make someone a gift

An act of service for someone you care for PLUS creativity? That’s a two for one therapeutic boost! Connecting with others is a way to reduce isolation and foster community which has mood boosting potential. Doing this by using your own creative skills (something as simple as a batch of cookies is perfect) only deepens that sense of care and connection.

5 - Touch grass

When all else fails…

Nature is a creative source all on it’s own. If you’re feeling off or just want to improve an already good day, getting outside is a sure way to do so. If you’re in the AZ summer heat, try going out early or late or even just spending time looking out the window.

Growth is work, but it’s also fun! And remember, you never have to do it alone. Reach out to a mental health professional if you’re experiencing any mental health concerns to get the care you need, and in the meantime, consider trying some small creative boosts throughout your day.