We all have those moments when we need to just stop and relax. But sometimes, the question is: how?
You don’t want to veg out on your phone because the light is actually more stressful on your eyes, and scrolling through the drama of social media is no help. The same goes for television. It can be peaceful, but do you really want more screen time?
If you’re a crafter like me, art is the best way to unwind and de-stress. The problem is, if you’re really like me, things usually get messy.
There are several occasions when I want to art, but I don’t want to make the mess, or do the clean-up. So, keep it simple, limit the supplies, cut the clean-up and try these 5 simple crafts to ease your anxiety.
1. Doodle to Music
The easiest craft of them all! Have you ever put on your favorite song, opened a journal, and just started doodling? If not, now is the time to give it a try.
This method engages a variety of senses to give you a full, whole-body relaxing experience. Your favorite song releases happy endorphins into your body, and your crafty side is satisfied, pen in hand.
The best part is there are no instructions or directions, wherever the music and your pen take you, it is sure to be a work of art.
2. Paint By Sticker
This new fad has yet to make its full trending appearance, but if you haven’t tried it, you are missing out. We are all familiar with the adult coloring trend, but this craft is even less messy and more unique.
The simplicity of attaching stickers to create a beautiful design makes you feel like a kid again. Once you’re finished, simply close the book and that is it!
There is no additional cleanup, allowing you to continue relaxing. If you’re unfamiliar with paint by sticker, click here to purchase your newest, favorite craft!
3. Yarn-Wrapped Letters
This craft is everything you want it to be to reduce your anxiety: cute, mindless, and simple. You can even use the finished product as decoration around the home.
Yarn wrapped letters are exactly what they sound like. You simply wrap various colored yarn around plastic or wooden letters to create a word, phrase, or name.
Remember, blue colored yarn is calming and reduces tension, while orange colored yarn will remind you of joy, sunshine, and the tropics. Still not picturing it? Here’s a helpful, full tutorial!
4. Mason Jar Vases
You just can’t beat art that is also decoration. Mason jar vases will easily reduce your anxiety. Fill them with flowers for an instant mood booster.
Paint the vases to get your painting fix in, or leave them the way they are and simply tie a ribbon around it. Once you’re finished, you have an adorable, rustic vase to add some greenery to your home décor.
I use mason jars for just about anything. I used them in my wedding and I regularly use them in my crafts, so these little jars give me all the good vibes. For some extra inspiration, check out these adorable vases.
5. Fidget Jewelry
This is one of my favorite stress-reducing crafts because it’s the craft that keeps on giving. Never heard of fidget jewelry? Well it’s beyond simple to make and once you wear it, it can constantly help you relieve your anxiety.
Here is an easy tutorial, but fidget jewelry can be made in all shapes and sizes, and it’s way more fashionable than those fidget spinners too.
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Most of the time I just craft. Never with the intention to reduce my stress, but by the time I am finished, I get that “ahhhh” feeling, and realize I am more relaxed.
There is something about engaging yourself in a project that is not on your to-do list, it’s simply for fun, that is highly relaxing. Even if you’re not an art person, you don’t need skills like Picasso to enjoy them.
Reflect & Refresh 