By Nina Agdal By Nina Agdal | July 22, 2021 | Lifestyle,
Creativity and wellness go hand in hand—here's how to calm your mind by allowing your imagination to run wild.
I’m always inspired by artists and their creative processes. They come from all walks of life and are able to harness their creative muscle in fascinating ways. Tapping into your own creativity is a great wellness tool that you can use right here and now—you might be surprised what you’re capable of!
Doing something creative instantly helps relax and calm the mind. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, sad or frustrated, having a go-to creative outlet can be extremely helpful and healthy. Everyone is different, so what resonates with one person might not for another, but what all creative outlets have in common is how they make you feel. Exercising your creative muscles will help release tension and leave you feeling lighter and empowered. The only catch is that you have to do it for yourself. So take the initiative and don’t let limiting beliefs stop you from trying something new. The first step is always the hardest, but once you’ve felt the benefits, you’ll want to make it a regular practice.
SILENCE YOUR INNER CRITIC. Allow yourself to have fun and don’t overthink it. If you’re painting, don’t worry about it being “perfect.” If you’re baking, don’t make it stressful by having to follow a recipe’s every single step. Silence your inner critic and allow yourself the space to explore!
For me, creativity looks different each day, but I aim to do one thing that releases my creative juices. Some days I’ll explore new movements or music for my workouts. Other days I’ll have fun going through my closet, trying on different things and curating new outfits. Most recently I started gardening with my boyfriend’s mom, Christie, who is an expert. There is something so beautiful about taking the time to plan where the plants or seeds should go, feeling the earth in your fingers and then seeing them grow into flowers or fresh vegetables. Creativity comes in all shapes and forms. It’s just about finding what brings you joy and shifts your mind into new, calmer spaces.
BECOME AN EXPERT. Always loved history? Curious about the ocean? A living fashionista? Start reading and diving deeper into the stories and facts behind your interests. Not only will this be a great way to exercise your mind, you’ll also feel really cool when busting out facts at upcoming dinner parties!
EMBRACE BEING BORED. Sometimes the best ideas come when nothing else is around to distract you. Let your mind wander and explore where you might enjoy getting creative.
START SOMETHING NEW! Always wanted to write a book? Start writing. Been meaning to bake that recipe you’ve had on your mind for years? Turn on the oven. Want to learn to speak Spanish? Find a tutor or join an app. Whatever it is that piques your curiosity, try it out and see how it goes.
MAKE THE TIME FOR IT. Even if it’s 10 minutes a day or 30 minutes a week, being creative is a practice worth keeping up with.
AND REMEMBER, THERE’S NO RIGHT OR WRONG WAY TO BE CREATIVE!
A dip in the ocean!
Nothing feels better than a refreshing swim after a long day of work. I promised myself I would take advantage of being so lucky to be this close to the ocean, so I aim to do it once a day.
I started using this product a few months ago and I have been loving it. It feels so light on the skin but really hydrates and plumps the skin from within. Apply it to your skin every morning and night before your serum and moisturizer.
This tincture is a staple in my handbag. I add one dropper of this blend of ionic trace minerals to my water bottle two to three times a day. It helps flush out toxins and restores beautifying minerals that are naturally depleted with age.
Photography by: NINA AGDAL PHOTOS BY ANTOINE VERGLAS, STYLED BY JAMIE FRANKEL; PRODUCT PHOTO COURTESY OF SAKARA