Art has always been my safe place. Long before I started teaching, designing products, or volunteering, art was where I went to breathe a little easier. Over the years, and especially through my work at Silver Spring Studio, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply creativity supports mental health—no fancy equipment, no pressure, just the simple act of making something.
Art slows the world down in a really lovely way. Whether you’re colouring, painting, stitching, or doodling, your brain gets a break from the constant noise. It’s one of the few activities that gently pulls you into the present moment. When your hand is moving, your thoughts soften. Stress eases. Anxiety settles. Even ten minutes can shift your whole day.
There’s also something incredibly empowering about creating. It gives you a sense of accomplishment, especially on days when life feels heavy or overwhelming. Making art reminds you that you can shape something beautiful—even if you can’t control everything else.
For many people, art becomes a quiet form of expression when words feel hard. Colours speak, lines release tension, textures feel grounding.
Art is for everyone. Every age, every ability, every background. And it doesn’t need to be perfect to be healing. A subjectively messy page can be just as therapeutic as a masterpiece.
If you’re looking for a mental-health-friendly habit, consider setting aside a few minutes each week to make something small. A doodle. A tiny painting. A scribbly page of colour. It’s not about the final result—it’s about giving your mind a soft, colourful place to rest.
Art makes life more bearable. More beautiful. More human.
Lisa Solonynko: Make Life Colourful 