For some people, things like breathing deeply and taking bubble baths just doesn't work. If you're an artist at heart, drawing might be the key to your stress relief.
Method 1 of 2: Draw and Destroy
1Draw everything that is stressing you out on a single piece of paper. Be detailed and don't hold back. Draw scenarios in action or use symbolic representation to identify the sources of your stress. Make sure you release all the feelings of stress or disturbing emotion in the drawing.Ad
2Destroy the visual representation of your stress. Scribble all over it, or tear the page into tiny pieces. Use your hands, not objects, to tear it so you get the relieving physical feeling.
3Throw away your visual representation. Just the act of throwing it into the bin can be incredibly therapeutic. If that is not enough, burn the paper and watch it turn to dust just like your problems going away.
4On another piece of paper draw things which make you feel calm and happy. Make sure they are things you can draw, as the inability to draw something can make you feel more stressed. Draw in circles as it is easier and avoid straight lines. Put happy face on the person or object you drew. It will make you easier to smile. Color the picture, if you want, in bright and colorful colors.
5If you want/can mount your picture and hang it up so you can see it whenever you feel stressed. Put it beside your bed so everyday you woke up you will be happy.
Method 2 of 2: Therapeutic Drawing
1Find something you like drawing. This can be anything; a picture of a place which makes you feel calm, a pet, a design. You can also imagine an exotic creature like a dragon or a unicorn. Try drawing animals that are mixed up. For an example, draw a lion with the body of a turtle. Be Creative!
2Choose a time when you know you won't be interrupted. Write it into your diary/calendar to ensure you leave the time free. If it is too hard to get some time off, draw when you have a few minutes to spare. This way you can draw in a long-term way.
3Find somewhere where you feel calm. Your bedroom can be a good place to draw especially while lying on the bed. If you find it it noisy or disturbing, go somewhere near mother nature. Under a tree or beside a lake can be a good spot.
4Listen to music can help you to relax and create the mood when drawing. Since music is also an art, try putting it into your drawing art. Vary your choice of songs : soft, gentle song can put your mind at ease while loud, crazy song can disrupt your mind and increase your stress. Choose the best song there is.
5Switch off your mobile. This is your time, remove as many distractions as possible. If people need to contact you they can leave you a message or try again later.
6Collect your materials Have everything at hand, and not just what you will use to create your picture, get yourself a snack to eat if you get hungry (or even pack a picnic if you fancy going off somewhere for a whole day) and a drink for when you get thirsty.
7Have fun. Lose yourself in the painting, enjoy yourself! This is for you so don't let anything ruin your day.Ad
We could really use your help!
- Art allows you to contact your creative side and provides a distraction when you get stressed, which is what makes it so effective. Keep a drawing/note pad with you so you can draw whenever you're feeling stressed.
Things You'll Need
- Preferred artistic materials.
- Time (be it 5 minutes or a week)