Mindful Art

Studies have discovered that after engaging in something creative, people felt not only happier and calmer the following day but had more energy too. 

Art-making helps us express things we have trouble putting into words and has been proven to be an effective way to deal with stress. 

Both viewing and creating art can be meditative practices. When viewing art allow yourself to step into the present moment and allow the object or performance to be your anchor. 

Mindful Photography

While you may not be able to go out and about as usual getting out for walks is great for your health. While you are out there you may consider trying Mindful Photography. 

Photography can be a great tool for practicing mindfulness when done with intention. The Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has developed and tested a five-week mindful photography curriculum with a grant from The John Templeton Foundation. 

In the project manual they describe photography as a physical manifestation of mindfulness. “It [photography] is about stopping/pausing, observing, framing, focusing, and capturing/ receiving… Basically, photography is about a relationship to the present moment.” 

Step 1: Take three deep breaths. Notice the noises around you, notice the different sensations; of your feet on the ground, perhaps the sun on your face. 

Step 2: Begin a mindful walking practice and consciously notice what is drawing your attention 

Step 3: Once something has caught your attention, stop and allow yourself to be curious. Notice what initially caught your attention and zoom in, notice color, texture, your relationship to the image, how it makes you feel, etc. Play with your perspective, notice how your relationship to the image changes as you zoom in and out, look at it from different angles, etc. 

Step 4: Take another 3 breaths to recenter yourself. Return to the composition you felt most connected to, that brought you the most joy and take the picture. 

Step 5: Repeat steps 2-4. 

Step 6 (optional): Post your photo on Instagram using hashtag, #MindfulMaking. Check out the photos under the hashtag #MindfulPhotgraphy for inspiration. Share what you noticed, what brought you jot, and what you are grateful for about this photo/experience in your caption. Remember to be mindful when scrolling through social media. Practice non-judgement and be curious about the stories your mind makes up.

References: Campbell, Emily. “How Photography Can Help Cultivate Mindfulness and Gratitude.” Greater Good Science Center, The Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley, 13 Feb. 2018, greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_photography_can_help_cultivate_mindfulness_and_gratitude.