Everyone can agree that the changes we have experienced over the past few years -and continue to currently in our world have us reeling a bit, struggling to adjust, and maybe feeling powerless and possibly...for some of us hopeless.
Conversations around mental health are more prevalent and overall, we are seeking ways to become better informed and supported on issues we or our loved ones may be experiencing.
While therapists are in demand now, more than ever, it is good to know that managing our mental health has become recognized as important and necessary.
During these times of rapid change and uncertainty, we need tools, resources, and sometimes professionals to help us through challenging times and issues we may be experiencing.
Change means a loss of some sort and its important to acknowledge the loss and replace it with something that makes sense and hopefully is a healthy option. Here is where we can get stuck as I wrote about in a post last year: Wanting More We have so much at our fingertips to fill the space....but is it good choice?
It is important to be intentional about how we fill the void in a way that benefits us.
In fact, I had a conversation recently with Cynthia Edelstein LMFT, ATR (Art Therapist)about how she uses art to help her clients work through mental health issues. I am summarizing here- but she explained that by ideating and then actually creating, we are activating areas of our brain that help us to work through trauma and depression. Depression affects our whole health not just our minds. By using creative actions it can help support the process.
Science shows us that cortisol levels are reduced when we attend to our bodies and minds, inflammation (a precursor to disease and illness) is reduced and we experience better health. When we are creating, our brains produce serotonin which helps to alleviate depression, and we experience happiness and positive health benefits
Even experiencing art can have positive effects. Who hasn't been "moved" by artwork or music?
It is difficult to find motivation when we are feeling overwhelmed and uninspired - but that is when it is most important. Perhaps you make it a new habit? It doesn't have to be art. It could be gardening, sewing, baking, writing, - whatever it is that brings you joy...It doesn't have to be perfect - it's for you to simply enjoy.
Make time for creative pastimes that help you live better, happier, and longer
Additionally, by sparking your creativity you are exercising a muscle that is valuable in our world now and going forward for managing change, developing new ideas, and creating solutions. It is a powerful tool that is uniquely yours to rely upon for your well-being and is necessary as a business owner and in today's new workforce.
Go be creative - it's good for you.
Whether just starting out, or starting again - NEXT encourages us to rethink and design how we live and work - empowering us to continue to remain relevant throughout life
Find out more about the author,( Speaker, Founder, Podcast Host): Elizabeth Ribons
See what is NEXT at NEXT Career & Life
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