Do art, it's good for you!

It’s no surprise anymore: creativity is good for you. Whether it’s painting, drawing, writing, or even just rearranging your home decor, creative activities have a huge impact on both mind and body.

It makes me sad when people say: “I’m not creative” or “art isn’t for me.” That wall, the belief that creativity belongs only to “artists”, is something a lot of us carry, built from childhood or school experiences that didn’t value the creativity that’s innate in all of us.

But here’s the truth: you don’t need to be “good” at art to benefit from it, or to enjoy filling your home with beautiful things that inspire you every day.

Why Creativity Matters

I fell for it myself. At school I was ‘good’ at art (copying things) but nowhere near ‘the best’ in that classic compare yourself school game that you always lose at. By the end of school any thoughts of continuing the subject I liked the most had left me. My parents, even though one was a designer, discouraged creative pursuit because you know, money and prospects.

Luckily I never spoke badly to myself, at some point in my life I had been told I was good at art and I clung onto that belief. But others weren’t, some people have been told they were missing that elusive ‘creativity’ and encased that belief within them. Shake it out, shake it off.

Because creativity isn’t about labels, grades or talent. It’s about connection, expressing yourself, exploring ideas and making space for joy.

A study from University College London showed that engaging in creative activities, like painting, pottery, writing, music, or crafting, helps us process emotions and reduce stress. Picking up a brush or pen is less about skill and more about self-care.

The Mental Health Benefits of Art

Research shows that creative activities can help you:

• Distract yourself from stress and anxiety
• Make space to think, plan, and reflect
• Build confidence and reconnect with yourself
• Boost your mood and sense of wellbeing
  

And here’s the best part, you don’t have to be good at art to get these benefits. In fact, trying something new (even if you’re completely terrible at it) can give you a bigger emotional boost than sticking with something familiar.

So yes, science says the arts are a kind of medicine for overstretched, overtired souls.

How to Bring More Art Into Your Life

If you’re not ready to pick up a paintbrush yourself, that’s ok. Surrounding yourself with art, especially nature-inspired pieces, can have a similar calming effect. (Yes my bedroom is green and covered in botanical prints of trees!)

Filling your home with nature-inspired wall art creates an environment that supports your wellbeing. Gentle landscapes, botanical illustrations, or abstract artworks inspired by natural forms can make your space feel more balanced and restorative.

Think of art as more than decoration, it’s a daily reminder to slow down, breathe, and reconnect.

Creative Connection

Of course, creating or experiencing art with others can amplify the benefits. Joining a local painting group, pottery class, or even a community choir combines creativity with connection, which research shows strengthens emotional wellbeing even more.

So,

If you’ve been waiting for permission, here it is:

You don’t have to be an artist to do art.

You don’t have to be rich to own art.

You just have to start.

Try a new creative hobby or explore affordable, nature-inspired art prints that speak to you. Surround yourself with pieces that make you feel calm, inspired and at home.

Because art isn’t just decoration, it’s good for you.