By Elli Collins
England has been coming in and out of lockdown for nearly a year. This has given people lots of time to focus on themselves and either start a new hobby, learn a new language, perfect a skill or write that novel.
Painting is a skill that can be improved with practice. Many people are taking up painting during this down time, and posting their pictures on social media. According to an article by Popup Painting, painting can help to relieve stress, and help emotional growth. And with people’s mental health going through the roof right now, this skill can definitely help.
“Painting has really helped me concentrate and give me a routine during this lockdown,” said 28-year-old receptionist, Angela Robinson. “It relaxes me, and not only gives me something to do, but a focus as well.”
Many of us have felt worried, lonely or anxious during this past year, and not everyone realises the importance of taking care of both mind and body. People who are stuck indoors and unable to see friends or family may feel that their mental wellbeing is suffering.
As many therapists – and artists – can attest, painting relaxes the mind, stimulating creativity and relieving mental strain. Painting can also help foster an optimistic attitude. It provides a relaxing and open space, where it is safe to be creative and express yourself. Producing a piece of work that you and others enjoy and admire can give the artist happiness and pride, meaning they are likely to carry on with this skill.
“Art has kept me busy during lockdown, it has really helped my mental health and gave me something to work towards,” said 19-year-old sales assistant, Jelena Kovacevic. “Creating my Instagram page has also helped me. I started it because of the overwhelming encouragement from family and friends. It started off with me painting my dog, and then I was painting other people’s dogs, and then all of a sudden I was getting requests.
“With the struggle of finding jobs during the pandemic, it has helped me make some extra money. It’s something I enjoy, so I thought: why not make money from it? Since starting the page, I have had lots of other commissions, and I can’t wait to see it grow even more.”
Although the lockdown may be coming to an end soon, it is still important to keep practicing skills and plug away with new talents. Doing something creative stimulates the brain and helps relieve stress. And you may even make some cash while you’re at it!
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