Dr Monika M Dass writes on finding magic in letting go, by using watercolor to help one cope with anxiety
One of my favourite things about watercolor is the lack of control! When painting, it is wonderful to see how the colours mix and blend in ways one cannot control – this is where the magic happens. So why, in life, does surrendering control feel so overwhelming? Why can’t we see the magic, or at least be open to the possibility of it?
In art, there is room for experimentation, for unexpected beauty to emerge from the chaos. In life, where our sense of security or identity might be on the line, it can feel riskier to let go. We are wired to crave stability, especially when anxiety is present – it is the brain’s way of trying to protect us from what it perceives as threats.
Yet, just like in watercolor, the magic in life often appears when we loosen our grip and allow things to unfold. Maybe the challenge is learning to treat life more like art, trusting that even if things do not go exactly as planned, there is beauty in the unexpected. Starting with small steps, perhaps we can slowly open up to that same wonder in life, giving ourselves space to experience the magic – even if it looks different than we imagined.
Water-colour art therapy uses the fluid, intuitive nature of water-colour painting for stress relief, emotional expression, and relaxation, with benefits including reduced anxiety, enhanced mindfulness, and a sense of accomplishment. It involves creating art without the pressure of perfection, focusing on the process of colour blending, shape creation, and physical sensations like tension in the body. This practice helps in self-discovery and can be a way to release emotions and find calm.
Key aspects of Watercolour Art Therapy:
- Stress and anxiety reduction: The rhythmic and flowing motions of watercolour painting can induce a meditative state, which lowers stress hormones and helps shift focus away from worries.
- Mindfulness and relaxation: Focusing on the present moment through color, shape, and movement helps ground you in the here and now. The act of painting can be soothing, and intentionally pausing to stretch or breathe can help release physical tension held in the body.
- Emotional release and self-expression: The process allows for the subconscious to guide the creative process. Colours and shapes can emerge based on your inner state, providing a non-verbal way to express and process emotions.
- Letting go of control: Water-colour is particularly effective for learning to let go of the need for perfection. The process itself, with its blending and unpredictable nature, encourages accepting imperfections and finding beauty in the unexpected.
- Sense of accomplishment: Completing any painting, no matter how simple, can provide a boost in self-esteem and a sense of satisfaction, which can reduce feelings of inadequacy that often accompany stress and anxiety.
How to get started
- Set the mood: Create a comfortable space for yourself, free from distractions and the pressure of a final outcome.
- Focus on the process, not the product: Don’t worry about creating a masterpiece. Allow yourself to simply play with colours and water.
- Intuitive creation: Let your hand choose the colours and shapes. You can even close your eyes to let the process be guided by your intuition.
- Mindful movement: Pay attention to your body. Notice any tension and take breaks to stretch or breathe deeply.
- Explore techniques: Experiment with techniques like wet-on-wet painting to see how the colours blend and spread on their own. You can also try adding other elements like salt to create unique textures.
- Reflect (if you choose): After painting, you can reflect on the finished piece to see what it might reveal about your current state of mind.
Making art feels like a safe space to practice letting go, to take risks without the pressure of control. This is where so much joy in the process comes from – there is no perfection to chase, just the freedom to create.
What I love about water-colour is that a lot of happy accidents occur! Water-colour is life!!
