Hi everyone!

Recently, in a search for hobbies that relieve stress, I came across painting. Trust me, I am no artist.  From elementary school, art class was not my favorite activity, and since then, I hadn’t really put any effort into pursuing the arts until I simply tried painting.

The effort of buying paint, getting dirty, and having to wash everything afterward was enough to make me want to discard this idea; however, one day when I came across some abandoned canvasses and paintbrushes in house, I rethought it.

If any of you guys paint, definitely feel free to leave me some suggestions in the comment section below! I’m still pretty new; I just found out that oil colors take days to dry! I will soon start to use acrylic paints and try out some watercolors that I also didn’t know I had.

Let’s get to it!

Art as a way to destress

In addition to painting, there are several ways to utilize elements of arts to destress or wind down after a tough day. For a few months, I have been using my Journeys coloring workbook for moments when I need to concentrate and temporarily let go my problems. Check out my post about coloring for more about my experience!

Along with coloring, I have now started to paint. I can’t really remember how this idea came to me; however, two unused canvases, paintbrushes, and a small set of oil color paint were suddenly uncovered in my house and I decided to start putting these to work right away.

Where Do I Start?

Go to your local craft store, such as Michaels, or places that have art supplies like Target, and begin purchasing some of the very basics there.

1. Finding your canvass.

Due to the unexpected canvasses lingering around in my house, I went straight to painting on these. Simple paper works well, too.

2. Discovering your tools.

Perhaps you prefer to use colored pencils to markers, or sponges to paintbrushes. Start out however you wish!

3. Set a timer and go!

I often don’t realize how much time has gone by when I get engrossed in activities like these. When I know that I have to study but I really want to take a break to paint a little, I set a thirty minute timer for myself that I cannot surpass.

4. Get creative.

Make your experience a lot of fun! I like to put on some music in the background while I paint. Every now and then, I also listen to a podcast or put on an audio book, too.

Maybe you also love the outdoors and this time of year: paint outside or in a favorite spot. Currently, I paint inside (my paintings are small and don’t require too much of a mess) but I can’t wait until the weather warms up so that I can try painting outside.

Should I try this?

Yes! Definitely give this a go. You will never know your potential with painting unless you give it a try. Perhaps in your elementary school art class days you abhorred painting, but giving it a chance today will unleash your inner artist. In the end, there exists no competition for the best painting; it’s completely for you to have some fun and release some stress.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you a great day, and don’t forget to give yourself some time to relax, whatever that may be.

“Don’t let a bad day make you feel like you have a bad life.” ~unknown