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The Healing Power of Creative Activities on Mental Health


In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for creativity can feel like a luxury. But in reality, it’s a necessity—especially when it comes to mental health. For me personally, it was a crucial tool to calm myself down after my traumatic childhood experiences. I turned naturally to everything creative: knitting, crochet, bead weaving, drawing and sewing.

My motivatation when I founded Tulipane Design was to show that engaging in creative activities like painting or jewelry making can have profound effects on our mental well-being. And at the workshops of Tulipane Design, in the last four years, we’ve witnessed first-hand how the process of creating art with your hands can soothe the mind, foster a sense of accomplishment, and cultivate emotional healing.


Reducing stress and anxiety

Studies have shown that creative activities activate different areas of the brain, reducing stress and anxiety while increasing feelings of happiness and relaxation.

A study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology found that engaging in small, everyday creative activities has a significant positive effect on emotional well-being. Participants reported higher levels of happiness and a sense of flourishing following creative activities, suggesting that creativity boosts overall mental health through increased mindfulness and a sense of accomplishment.

When we immerse ourselves in painting, weaving, or crafting jewelry, we enter a state of “flow”—a meditative, focused state that promotes mindfulness. Much like meditation, these creative processes encourage us to focus on the present moment, allowing us to set aside worries and negative thoughts.The concept of “flow,” was introduced by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. In his book Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience, Csikszentmihalyi explores how immersing oneself in creative activities can create a meditative, joyful state that helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and depressive thoughts.


For many, bead weaving is more than just a form of art; it becomes a therapeutic practice. The repetitive motions of stringing beads, the focus required to create patterns, and the tactile nature of the materials all work together to create a calming rhythm. This can be especially beneficial for those coping with anxiety, trauma, or depression, offering a constructive outlet for processing emotions. A 2010 review published in The Arts in Psychotherapy demonstrated that creative activities can serve as non-verbal methods of emotional expression, promoting healing for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, or depression.

At Tulipane Design, we believe that art is a powerful healing tool, and our workshops aim to help participants tap into this potential. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, each session is designed to inspire creativity, foster relaxation, and build confidence in your abilities.


Group Dynamics and the Power of Sisterhood

Beyond the individual benefits of creativity, our workshops also provide a nurturing group environment that enhances mental health. The sense of community and connection formed during our bead weaving sessions is a key part of the healing process. When we gather to create, we’re not just making art—we’re building bonds. The act of sharing space and creativity fosters a sense of belonging, reducing feelings of loneliness or isolation.

At Tulipane Design, we’ve cultivated a strong atmosphere of sisterhood in our workshops. Participants support and encourage each other, sharing stories, laughter, and sometimes even tears. This collective experience can be incredibly uplifting, as the group dynamic helps to create an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. In this space, there’s no competition or judgment—only the shared joy of creating something beautiful together.

These moments of connection can be transformative. Group creative activities remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. They offer the opportunity to not only express ourselves but also to witness the resilience and creativity of others, which can be incredibly empowering. In our workshops, we are offering a safe space for healing, growth, and self-expression.


Creativity has been always with us


In many cultures, women have long gathered to engage in creative activities together—whether it was knitting, sewing, cooking, or crafting—these communal activities were much more than just productive tasks. They offered a space for women to share stories, advice, and emotional support, creating strong social bonds in the process. These gatherings, often held in homes or community spaces, allowed women to connect on a deeper level while nurturing a shared sense of purpose and creativity. The act of creating together strengthened relationships, fostered cooperation, and provided a safe environment for women to decompress from the pressures of daily life.

Today, with the fast pace of city life, it can feel difficult to carve out time for these kinds of gatherings. However, there is a growing need to reintegrate this tradition of communal creativity into our modern lifestyles. By organizing regular meetups—whether at a friend’s home, a local café, or a creative studio—women can once again come together to knit, bead, or even cook as a group. Setting aside just an hour or two a week for a creative activity can provide a welcome break from the constant rush, offering not only a creative outlet but also a space for authentic connection and mutual support. Implementing this in our busy lives may require planning, but the benefits to mental health and overall well-being are invaluable, making it a worthwhile investment in both community and self-care.


At Tulipane Design, we strive to make art accessible to all, knowing its tremendous power to uplift and heal. Whether through the intricate art of bead weaving or the simple joy of shared creativity, we invite you to explore these practices and experience their impact on your mental health firsthand. Together, we can craft beauty—inside and out. See our workshops here and join the discussion on social media.


Edith


References

Conner, T.S., DeYoung, C.G., & Silvia, P.J. (2016). Everyday creative activity as a path to flourishing. Journal of Positive Psychology, 11(3), 335-342.

Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. Harper & Row.



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