Creating calm through painting

Have you ever considered using painting as a form of self-care? As an artist, painting is my happy place. But you don’t have to be a professional artist to benefit from this art form. I like to approach it like a painting meditation. Your art making can be for your own joy. You can use it to calm your mind, get into the flow, and just breathe.

Even if you only have 15 minutes, you can enjoy the calming benefits of using art as a self-care practice. You are so worth it! 

let’s dip into a few tips for creating a creative self-care art practice!

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Set up a comfy environment

You don’t have to have a dedicated space to paint, but it can be helpful to make your space as cozy & comfortable as possible. Even if all you have is your kitchen table, try lighting a candle, playing some good music, and bringing in some fresh cut flowers.

Breathe

Before you come to yur table to paint, move your body, stretch for a moment to loosen yourself up. Then, as you sit to begin your painting sesh, take a few a few deep breaths. This will really help you sink into your body, and to feel more present, so you’ll feel centered and peaceful before you begin painting.

release the notion of perfectionism

The biggest hurdle we have as artists is perfectionism. But remember, this is all about how to use painting as a form of self-care! Let go of worrying about whether or not your art is “perfect.” This practice is just for you. You don’t have to share what you make with anyone if you don’t want to. It’s all about enjoying the process of creation and putting a brush to paper or canvas. 

If your painting doesn’t turn out perfectly, be kind to yourself. We are all beginners at one time or another. Find joy in the fact that you gave yourself time for a quiet, creative moment. Feel gratitude for the fact that (even if it’s not perfect) you created something that didn’t exist before. That’s pretty magical if you ask me!

Remember, this is an experience, a journey, and a process. And your objective, should you want one is to merely identify, attune with, and creatively express & befriend and emotion that you’re feeling.

paint in an abstract style

As you pick up a brush, you may be thinking, “Terri, I want to paint, but I have no clue WHAT to paint.” This, my friend, is where abstract painting comes into play. You don’t have to worry about getting it perfect because you’re not painting something representational. Abstract painting is the ultimate way to get in touch with yourself and let your creativity run free. 

Begin by watching my Mindful Modays YouTube videos where you cant paint with me. Follow along with these paint-with-me-sessions for gentle guidance and inspiration. I always make sure that these are low-pressure, fun, and perfect for beginners!

Share your creation and tag us @Bloom_true with the hashtag #createandgrow so that we can feature your work on our Instagram page and in our Pinterest account.

I hope that this post encourages you to try your hand at painting as a form of self-care. If you need some ideas for what to paint, visit and follow me on Instragram and subscribe to my YouTube channel where I offer a variety of creative content for you to create, discover and grow! You may even want to purchase some of my digital downloadable papers and florals to create with. Here’s to feeling and creating JOY!

Whether you’re a seasoned art journaler, or this creative medium is new to you, through Bloom True, you will discover the transformative power of art with me, Terri Conrad, as your guide.

Together, we’ll explore mixed media art journaling, expressive art, and creative self-care practices designed to inspire, heal, and help you grow. If you’re ready to unleash your inner artist and nurture your soul through unique workshops, resources, and artwork, join the journey to create, discover, and thrive by subscribing to our newsletter, follow us on IG, and enjoy & subscribe to our new YouTube channel.

Thanks for being here!