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Art Therapy for Mental Health: Relax, Unplug & Get Creative
- Crafty Monkey
- May 27, 2023
- 3 min read
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to prioritise self-care and emotional wellbeing. With life’s constant pressures—be it work deadlines, family commitments, or the overwhelming state of the world—it’s never been more important to pause, unplug, and do something just for you. And no, we don’t mean endlessly scrolling your phone!
Creative activities such as art therapy and are a brilliant way to support your mental health, reconnect with yourself, and enjoy the present moment.
At Crafty Monkey, we believe creativity isn’t about perfection—it's about the process.
Why Creativity is Good for Your Mental Health
Taking time to be creative has been shown to:
Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve mood and emotional regulation
Boost memory and focus
Help you reconnect socially
Increase mindfulness and present-moment awareness
You don’t need to be an "artist" to experience the benefits—just the act of making something can be calming and rewarding.
Not Sure Where to Start? Try Low-Pressure Art
Being creative with art can be daunting, especially if you haven't picked up a paintbrush since school! If you're unsure where to begin, try something low-pressure like:
Colouring books
Paint-by-numbers
Pottery painting with pre-designed pieces
We often see customers at Crafty Monkey who feel nervous at first, so they start with pottery that already has a design etched on—this gives them something to follow, helping them relax into the process.
Simple, Intuitive Art is Still Powerful
Don’t underestimate the power of splodges, patterns and splashes! Some of the most beautiful and expressive pieces in our studio come from people just playing with colour and pattern.
Look at this vibrant vase painted with simple geometric shapes—easy to do, incredibly effective, and most importantly, fun! When you stop worrying about the end result, you’ll naturally feel more relaxed and present.
Creativity is Better When Shared
Art can be a wonderfully social activity. Whether it’s a pottery class or event night, a craft workshop, or a take-home painting kit, creativity gives you a reason to meet up in real life and do something meaningful together.
For anyone who feels anxious about social situations (especially post-lockdown), creative sessions offer a softer way to connect—conversation flows more easily when your hands are busy!
We host regular Adults' Sip and Paint Pottery Evenings in our studio, which are great opportunities to relax, socialise, and make something beautiful.
Art Therapy Without the Therapy Price Tag
Art therapists have long used art therapy and creativity to support emotional growth and healing. Whether it's painting, sculpting clay or crafting, it helps people process emotions, build confidence and feel more in control.
But you don’t need to see a therapist to benefit—just carving out time to do something creative at home or in a supportive group can make a real difference to your wellbeing.
At Crafty Monkey, we offer:
Pottery painting sessions (no experience needed!)
Take-home kits for solo painting or creative nights in
Pottery Painting Themed Event Nights to bring people together
Have a look at some of our customers' work - we have lots more on our socials for pottery painting ideas and inspiration!
Give Your Mind a Break With Art Therapy
In a world that never stops, choosing to be creative is a radical act of self-care. Whether you're painting a pot, making a clay gnome, or just doodling in a notebook, you're giving your mind permission to slow down and play.
So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, ditch the doomscrolling and pick up a paintbrush instead. You might be surprised at how much better you feel afterwards.
💡 Want to try it for yourself? Book a creative experience, order a pottery painting kit, or join one of our upcoming events. Visit our Pottery Classes or Adult Evenings page to learn more!
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