Constructive Creativity - Get Your Art On!

I am a firm believer in creativity as a path to producing more than just art. Over the last few years I discovered that creativity produces mindfulness, stress relief, and joyfulness as well.

I have known this a long time, even taught it in wellness courses, but it became deeply personal in the years following my Parkinson’s diagnosis and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mindful activities reduces stress

I have heard people make objections such as "I am not an artist" or "I don’t know how to begin" and they feel stressed thinking of trying anything creative. I once said such things, too. Why do I now contend that creative endeavors help manage stress?

The creative process is engaging. I often begin with an inspiration piece like a photo or an idea from YouTube or Pinterest. This reduces the stress of staring at a blank piece of paper and fretting that I have to somehow magically create a perfect piece of art.

I assemble supplies to avoid the stress of starting something unprepared. I enjoy traditional supplies like paper, canvas, colored pencils, and paints. I also enjoy working with less traditional surfaces like rocks, canvas totes, and shoes.

Each time I begin I take a few cleansing breaths to calm my mind and then find myself getting “lost” in what I am doing.

Live in the moment

The final product may or may not be called "art" by me or anyone else, but the process of making it calls for me to live in the moment. Each moment calls for my attention and keeps negativity at bay.

You may prefer such things as quilting, writing, leather work, sculpting or photography. The good news is that you can find something you will enjoy.

Try something new

Still say that you are not an artist? Voice your objection, but then give yourself permission to try something that seems least intimidating.

Remember the coloring books of your childhood? There are "adult" versions for colored pencil, crayon, markers or paint. Remember paint-by-number kits? Now you can buy "adult" versions that are low stress as you follow the instructions.

Want something more specific? Buy a single art kit or subscribe to an art kit service. Take a course – many are free! Courses are available online or at your local library, fine arts center or Maker Lab.

Invite a friend to try something new with you and enjoy the social connection as well as the art making. If you remain reluctant to create, then feel fearless to enjoy the art of other persons with Parkinson’s because there is research that supports the fact that simply viewing art improves one’s well-being!

Benefits of art

Things I have made bring me joy. First, I get to enjoy making them. Second, I take joy in giving them away. For example, sending handmade greeting cards is just one way to scatter joy. Third, I am thankful for what I can do and that gratitude is the foundation for joy.

If you need more convincing that art can be fun and good for you, then look into art therapy. See if there is a local art therapist or find an online option.

In a nutshell, art as therapy for people with Parkinson’s addresses emotional and psychosocial wellness, improved mood, and self-efficacy.

Henri Matisse said "creativity takes courage." Be brave. Jumpstart your creativity today!

Supplies and sources

This is a short list of sources I have used or am currently using for my own creative enjoyment. I am not endorsing these sites or groups, nor have I been paid to list them but am sharing them for your convenience.

I hope one may be a springboard for you to jump into creative endeavors and all they have to offer.

Artsy Parkinson’s-specific Facebook groups:

• TheQuiver.org
• Parkinson’s Creatives
• Arts and Such by PWPs

General artsy Facebook groups:

• Mindful Art Studio
• Creative Hand Lettering & Doodling with Lindsay
• Art Journaling for Beginners

Some art subscription and instruction sites online:

• ArtSnacks
• Let's Make Art
• KiwiCo (Maker Crate)
• Strathmore Artist Papers
• Domestika
• Little Coffee Fox
• Michaels

Check locally for:

• Classes at Michael’s (Maker Fest)
• Board & Brush
• Paint Your Own Pottery
• Painting with a Twist