I'd like to talk about art for mindfulness and how it has helped me personally.
I'll get 'the word' out in the open first, as it can cause dread just thinking about it - Anxiety.
As we all know, life can be tough at times. Whether its stress caused by day-to-day life or something more major, many of us suffer from anxiety. Yes, you're not alone. I have suffered from anxiety for decades and have tried many and varied ways to manage it. Most with no success. Some with minimal success. Then I found painting!
I started out doing folk art in the 1980's and loved it. Many of you may have done the same thing. It was all the rage back then. All those roses that we tried so hard to get right. All of the plant pots in the house were decorated with painted patterns, and gifts were hand painted, mostly because we had too many folk art pieces at home and had to get rid of some.
I laugh about it now, but little did I know that painting would become a huge part of my life and the best therapy I've ever undertaken.
Over the years I've painted with acrylics and watercolour, but recently I discovered dot painting. It is without a doubt, the most mindful and peaceful painting that I've ever done.
The sheer concentration that it takes to maintain the symmetry when painting a mandala is mind-blowing. I found that I was so enthralled with what I was painting I actually forgot about everything that was on my mind or that was happening in my day. In essence, I guess it's a form of meditation.
Sometimes hours will pass before I realise what the time is. I should probably be doing more menial tasks like washing and housework, but in the name of mental health, I'm more than willing to just paint! The housework will wait for me.
I've now become programmed to go and paint whenever things start to get too much. It's a 'no brainer'! But it's not just working for me.......
I also work in aged care and have seen first-hand, how painting can change a person's life. I've witnessed people go from being depressed and anxious to being happy and content. All because they started painting. It provides them with a sense of achievement. Provides them with social contact at the art class, and also gives them a hobby which they can do at home. It's perfect! Again, the mindfulness of painting helps to block out the thoughts and emotions racing around in our heads.
I've recently started teaching an art class at our local Community Centre and my ladies are truly amazing. Everyone paints differently and uses colour in different ways, but the end result is always beautiful and the smiles on everyone's face at the end of the lesson is testament to the fact that they have all had a terrific time. I love the fact that we can socialise while learning and for the 2 hours that the class runs for is like a little haven from the outside world.
No matter whether your arty or not, maybe give painting a try. You might surprise yourself!
