Get Grounded With Art

This is an interesting time we are in with its unique challenges as well as new possibilities for growth and connection. Routines have been simply dissolved and reality seems quite different. 

After the initial worry and confusion, I felt an inner peace due to the slowed down pace. And I experienced a renewed appreciation for my life. Then there have been days where restlessness seeps in. I find that art is a powerful remedy. Creative expression can be a soothing and releasing form of self care and help us find our anchor. Art can also lend a well needed structure in times of disorder and uncertainty.

Here are some expressive ideas to venture  within, foster your creativity and recenter yourself. These activities can be used by kids and adults.

Grounding in the Moment

Supplies: markers, colored pencils, paint, oil pastels or crayons, paper

Activity: Draw a tree that you are feeling like today. Or any tree you like. When you’re done look at your tree, it’s shape, size, maybe it’s branches, leaves and roots. Is your tree receiving nurturance and from where? Does it need something from you? If this tree could talk what would it say? What would you like to say to it? Get to know this tree now while giving it permission to be as it is.

This activity can be done with movement instead of art. Stand and feel your roots in the ground, feel your sturdy trunk and stretch your branches up high.

Draw Upon Your Feelings

Create a sketch or symbol to express how you feel right now. You can give your work a title and contemplate what you see. All feelings are welcome. 

Routine Through Art

Make a time each day to do art. This can help create structure in your day and help soothe the nervous system.

Another idea is to plan to do art once a day any time, whether in an art journal or a project. One of the benefits of art is the tangible items you will have to reflect on now and look back on later.

Please note that art is about the here and now. It can be helpful to take a deep breath before you start and to look at your work with compassion and curiosity. Enjoy!

I would love to hear about your creative experience. And I’m here if you have any questions. 

Yannah Popovitz has an M.A. in Expressive Therapies from Lesley College in Israel, and has extensive experience working with a wide range of populations in the US, UK and Israel.  Zoom and Skype sessions are available.