5 Self Care activities for Artists

Today I wanted to share a post all about self care as a creative person. Other then drawing, self care is another thing I love. You might get that vibe through my art already if you've been following me some time :)

As an artist or any creative person really, it's so easy to get caught up in the creative process and working long hours without stopping! We can often forget to take care of ourselves and I've even done this myself... it's not good! Hopefully this post will give you some ideas and inspiration to add into your routines. It's important that you practice good habits regularly to see them take effect and taking care of your self should be a priority. Plus, the better you feel from self care, the better you can feel and be as a creative!👍

1. READING OR LISTENING TO BOOKS

Reading or listening to Audio books are a great way to overcome stress and it can help calm us down. I found part of an article which I will share below from goodnet.org.

When we’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed, the best cure to calm our nerves is in a book. A 2009 study at the University of Sussex showed that reading was the best way to overcome stress, even over activities such as going on a walk or listening to music. Researchers measured participant’s heart rate and muscle tension and saw it took six minutes for readers to ease tensions once they began reading. The best news? It doesn’t matter what kind of book we read, as long as we’re engrossed in the content.

I love listening to audio books myself! I actually put the app timer on from audible and fall asleep at night listening to them. I personally love books mindset and development, those that inspire you to live a better lifestyle. I’ve done a blog post listing my top 5 books for artists so check that out here if you’re interested!

2. MOVE YOUR BODY

Not too long ago, I got a really stiff neck as I lean over a lot staring into my iPad when I draw. My neck hurt so bad for up to 5 days, I couldn't move it properly and it hurt more to sleep. Back and knee pains started to kick in as well so I new that I needed to change things. It took a while to get this habit going as I allowed myself to avoid exercise for so long and had really got out of a routine!

If you draw like me or do something where you are sitting in one position for long hours, try these few things to help...

* Get a standing desk to use for parts of the day

* Schedule in breaks. I'd say every 2 hours, set timers on your phone and get up and walk around, stretch, do some house chores, etc. Even if it's just 5 minutes, as long as you get up and move!

* Look into getting better chairs to help with posture, add a lower back cushion for comfort and make sure the desk you work at is the right height for you to work comfortably, etc.

3. MEDITATION

This is one I've always loved but never do enough of until recently. I try to do this almost every day now and it's such a good way to re-connect with yourself and set good intentions for the day. It helps you achieve a mentally clear and calm state of mind. I definitely recommend looking more into it. Headspace is a good app actually that I used a few years ago. It's what helped me practice and it was free too!

4. GET OUTSIDE

Getting outside and connecting with nature is so good for us. It can help with concentration, reduce stress and improves your mental health overall. I love getting out in the fresh air and looking at all the birds and plants. I always feel so motivated after a walk and it can help trigger inspiration. I usually listen to a motivating audio book/podcast or ‘chill out’ music and I always get carried away taking photo's!

5. GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Sleep is important for health and wellbeing, it can effect your physical and mental health if you don't get enough. I've read that not getting enough sleep can weaken our immune systems, causes thinking issues, lead to weight gain and impaired memory!😱

I try to aim for at least 8 hours and I always feel my best for the day!

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Two more things that I'll mention before I end this is to make sure you drink plenty of water through the day. I always re-fill my glass in the day so I've got it to hand, I take water bottles anytime I go out and drink a glass of water first thing when I wake up! I also have a glass next to my bed through the night too.

The 2nd thing is to eat nourishing food that makes you feel good. I'd recommend looking up what food is good for what, such as glowing skin, brain development, energy etc! and then try to incorporate more of these foods into your diet!

You will see such an improvement in yourself and your work once you start including some or all of these habits into your days.