Hello you!
I am so happy to launch the much-awaited - The Creative Mental Wellness Project!!!
What is this project about?
Creative Mental Wellness combines creative activities like art, writing, and music with self-care practices to promote mental well-being. It's about using creativity to:
Manage stress and anxiety
Boost self-esteem and confidence
Improve emotional awareness
Foster self-expression and communication
Increase feelings of joy and purpose
Help with focus
What it’s not?
A diagnosis or treatment: it's not a substitute for professional help.
A one-size-fits-all solution: Mental health is personal, so the project offers creative tools, not a rigid approach.
Forcing positivity: It acknowledges mental health challenges and focuses on creative expression, not forced happiness.
Being overly technical: Focus on accessibility and ease of participation, not complex techniques.
Perfection: It's a safe space for exploration and doesn't require artistic mastery.
This project isn't about diagnosing problems or offering a single solution. It's a creative space to explore mental well-being through different activities.
Who is it for?
For anyone interested in trying creative ways to regulate their mental health.
What can you expect?
Each Monday we will tackle a common problem with one creative activity.
How can you support the project?
You can contribute whatever you like on my Kofi account and stay tuned for some exclusive goodies and sessions for your kind gesture! Or you can upgrade to the paid version of substack.
My “Why” for starting this project?
Life threw me curveballs: a confusing childhood, a corporate escape, and a leap into teaching and art. Each time, the world felt like a swirling mess, impossible to untangle.
But here are my secret weapons: Art and writing have always been my trusty sidekicks. Urban sketching, for example, turned chaotic Hong Kong into a friendly neighbor when I first moved. During the crazy quarantine days, my art series became a lifeline, reminding me of what kept me sane.
My "How Do You Feel Today?" series wasn't just art – it sparked conversations about mental health across the globe! Seeing it featured in the South China Morning Post and even an exhibition in London's Victoria Hall of Fame was incredible, but the real magic was connecting with so many people. It empowered me to raise funds during COVID's darkest hours.
A lot of my art style recently is very child-like. It’s my way of keeping my inner child alive who grew up situationally, not willingly. It’s one of my dreams to make a child-like book for adults like me.
Art even makes my day job as a teacher a superpower! It bridges the gap with students who learn differently, proving that art truly speaks a universal language.
Words, colours, lines, and squiggles have helped me navigate life's twists and turns. This project isn't about becoming a Picasso, but about feeling more equipped to handle whatever life throws your way. Think of it as a creative hug, ready to bring you the same comfort it brings me. So, are you ready to unleash your inner creativity?
P.S: No artistic skills required. Just an open mind and 5-10 minutes of your time.