The combination of mindfulnes, watercolours and journalling can be a powerful practice to improve mental and emotional wellbeing. Taking even just a few minutes each day to focus your attention on all three activities can have a profound, positive impact on your life.
There is also, for me, something anchoring and grounding about a regular (ish) practice. It allows for routine and that is something I can find calming and settling. I do take steps to stop it becoming something I can fail at.
For me this is a simple mindset-I embrace the idea of a practice that will undoubtedly have missed days. My focus is on the bigger picture of practicing and becoming more consistent in incorporating creativity and journalling into my days.
If I miss a day or days, that is OK. I pick up and begin. I also gamify things, keeping track of consecutive days and beating my last score is a common go-to. I also soften my view and bring in flexibility.
Some days my journalling is in an app, some days it is taking some time to think through something. My creativity may be gardening or organising; it could be cooking or singing in the shower. Some days it is writing that is my creativity. Sometimes it is a task approached mindfully.
For me written journalling is a great way to process thoughts and feelings and to gain clarity and focus. Often I don’t want to read it back so it forms the first layer of my art or a page in my art journal..
I also have a shortened journalling process that uses a mindfulness based approach and a series of questions. It includes how I am feeling, any gratitudes and something I will do for myself and something I will do for others. This type of short journalling can help to shift your perspective if you are feeling overwhelmed or stuck.
Using a short, simple watercolour exercise, with journalling, can also be a great way to practice active meditation. It can help to relax the mind and body, allowing you to be present and mindful in the moment. Even if you are a beginner, focusing on a simple task such as painting a single flower or leaf can be a calming and centering activity.
For me, a short, regular practice of mindfulness, watercolours and journalling can be more beneficial than longer but less regular practice. I most often use a mindful moments exercise over the top of my journalling, like this one:
If you miss a day, it’s totally fine – just pick it up again and keep going. This is why it is a practice and not a one-time event.
By incorporating journalling and watercolours as part of your daily practice, you can create a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings and to express yourself creatively. This can help to reduce stress and build resilience, while also improving your watercolour skills. So why not give it a try and see how it can enhance your wellbeing?
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