Art as a moving meditation
I find drawing and watercolour are particularly helpful in getting me into a flow state. In a busy day, a busy life, I often find it hard to switch off my thoughts. It’s like the momentum from full speed to stillness is too much of an adjustment. Making something with my hands can be an easier and kinder way to get into a state of calm and allow for flow. Kinder as I forgive the chatter in my mind instead of get frustrated with it. I occupy my mind with something else, something simple and relaxing. As the ink and pen flows across the page, as the watercolour washes across paper, my mind can more easily go with the flow. It’s like a moving meditation. Add in some other elements such as a cup of herbal tea, flowers and nature, relaxing music and it’s a recipe to help you de-stress and deeply relax.
Making art can be meditative because it invites you into a space where the mind and body merge in creative flow. When you engage in artistic expression, you step away from the noise of your thoughts and enter a zone of pure presence. It's a kind of surrender—where you're not striving for perfection, but simply being with the process. The rhythm of your movements, the repetition of brushstrokes or sculpting, even the tactile nature of materials, all contribute to a peaceful, almost trance-like state. In this space, time slips away, and what’s left is just the act of creation—simple, focused, and deeply grounding.
When you immerse yourself in the act of creating, you’re invited to leave behind distractions and tap into a flow of mindfulness. With every stroke, every mark, you’re tuning your mind and body to the now. It’s not about the outcome—it’s about the process itself. Through this, art becomes a powerful tool for stillness, relaxation, and clarity, similar to the practices of traditional meditation.
When you pick up your pen or brush, you enter a dialogue between yourself and the paper, where the act of applying colour is not just about the final image, but about your experience in that moment. Every movement of the brush, every color choice, every moment of stillness between strokes creates a rhythm that gently centers the mind. The focus isn’t on the product—it’s on the creative journey, on being present with the paint, the surface, and your inner world. It’s a meditation in motion, where each brushstroke guides you deeper into the experience of calm.
Before we could talk we could draw and paint, as children we connected with our creativity and play, as adults we often have left it behind or get caught up in the need for things to be ‘good’ or ‘perfect’. But if we just let it happen- with no need to post it on Instagram or sell it on etsy- if we can find the joy and calm we get just from the process- then we can feel more connected to ourselves that maybe we’ve lost in the hectic adult lives we live.
If you want to give it a try- just start with pen and paper. Then add the flow of watercolours to the mix.
Calming Art Workshops are available across Melbourne at four venues and online as a pre-recorded video series as well as by request for workplaces and special occasions.
Calming Art Kits are available from my online store or in-person at workshops.
