Definition
Regularly drawing is a simple way to improve your mood.
How to Do It
Get a pen or pencil and draw shapes, expressive scenes, or just things you see in front of you. One of the most popular methods of drawing for relaxation is to draw repetitive loop patterns.
Benefits
- May alleviates negative emotions[1,2]
- May reduces anxiety[3]
- May reduces stress levels[5]
Time Commitment
10-20 minutes
Why it works
- Drawing can act as a distraction from negative emotions, making you less likely to ruminate[2].
- Drawing stimulates the production of ‘alpha waves’. These are patterns of electrical activity in the brain that correspond with relaxation[4].
- Levels of cortisol, ‘the stress hormone’, can be reduced by drawing[5]
Suggested Frequency
Daily
Supporting Studies and Articles
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07421656.2017.1326227
- https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2016-30739-001
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6549595/
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07421656.2014.903821
- https://www.degruyter.com/downloadpdf/j/prolas.2010.64.issue-1-2/v10046-010-0020-y/v10046-010-0020-y.pdf
Gurus/Celebrities/Doing it
Tracey Emin
Stephen Colbert
Jim Carrey
Category Health/Productivity/Mood:
Mood
Notes
- Drawing is just one option in what is known as ‘Art Therapy’. If you have other resources, like modelling clay or paint, you can substitute drawing for any of these activities.
- If you want to include someone else in your drawing sessions, this can create a greater sense of empathy.
- Listening to classical music is also very beneficial for relaxation and creativity/productivity improvement. Combining listening to classical music and drawing may have exponential benefits.
