Art and Creativity As Self-Care

Now that you have the time (especially in the age of COVID), you can make sure that you also practice self-care. Self-care can help you cope with stress and negativity, too. Getting and staying sober is an adventure, just like life! Addiction is only a small part of who you are. Exploring your creativity in recovery can help you connect to those other parts of yourself.

It may have been a long time since you were asked to be creative. Creativity is about making things and enjoying yourself. Learning to let go and just be creative is a part of recovery, too. There are a lot of ways you can use art and creativity as a way to explore your emotions and enhance your recovery.

Getting Creative and Letting Go

Many people who enjoy art say that they like to work with music. Music is a great way to set the mood. If you want to try your hand at something creative, we’ll explore some small projects soon. First, find a private spot (unless you want to do your art with others) and make sure you have space to spread out your materials. Is there enough light? If the weather is good, you can even go outside, but weigh down your lightweight materials with a rock.

Art materials are everywhere if you’re ready to think creatively. You can use magazines, paints, newspaper, markers, poster board, cardboard, and even items from nature.

Art Project Ideas to Start With

Art is a form of therapy that you can use for self-care. It can help relax you and help you express emotions that you may have trouble verbalizing. It can also be a tool for venting frustration, anger, or sadness. You can also use art to help inspire yourself. Here are three art projects to try:

• Make a vision board. A vision board is a collage usually made from poster board and cut-outs from magazines, newspapers, etc. Vision boards illustrate goals, hopes, and thoughts. Think about what you want in the future? How do you hope your life is when you’re one year sober? Are five years sober? What goals are you working on right now, and what does accomplishing them look like or feel like?
• Draw or paint your addiction like it is a monster. Use whatever materials you like. Why does your monster look this way? What would the hero look like if you depict them, too? How can the hero slay this monster?
• Draw or paint your “safe space.” Everyone should have a place in their memory or imagination to escape to when they’re feeling scared or overwhelmed mentally. If you have trouble sleeping or feel anxiety, this is the place you want to imagine. Put it next to your bed, and make sure to think about it and remember the details.

Getting Help for Addiction

Do you or somebody you love need help with their alcohol or substance use? Help is available! We are here to help you reclaim your life, even in the era of COVID-19. Some things have changed, but we are still here to help you get clean and sober. Give us a call to learn more about how we can help you at 619-363-4767.