Get Creative: Making Art for Fun and Healing

Looking for ways to get moving, slow down or say thanks after cancer treatment? Creativity may be the answer. Henry Ford art therapist Mallory Montgomery, MS, ATR, shares ideas.

People have an innate desire to be creative and expressive – just look at the popularity of Pinterest. Art, exercise, mental strategy games or learning a new skill can stimulate the brain and promote healing.

Health benefits of creativity

Creative activities can reduce the effects of chemo brain and improve problem solving skills. They can boost the immune system, reduce inflammation and help manage chronic pain. Some research even suggests that creativity may reduce the risk of developing dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

Repetitive activities can calm

When you are feeling anxious, worried or panicky, repetitive activities can calm the nervous system,
reduce the flow of stimulating adrenaline and activate the reward system in the brain. Try coloring, writing, drawing, doodling, knitting, crocheting or pattern making.

Crafting, cooking or even cleaning can have a calming effect. To express gratitude to loved ones who have helped you during cancer treatment, consider painting a thank you card or sculpting with clay.

Physical activities can energize

When you’re feeling rundown or experiencing chemo fatigue, do activities that involve body movement.

Try singing, free-form dancing, creating ceramics or woodworking. They can produce a burst of energizing dopamine – the feel-good brain chemical – that relieves stress, increases alertness and boosts self-esteem.

Just do it!

Ready to get crafty but need some inspiration? Download details to make two of Mallory’s favorite projects:

• No-sew worry dolls
• Intention bracelets

Happy creating!

Find inspiration in your community

Need help finding inspiration or support for art projects? Check out these community resources:

• ArtBlock - Detroit
• Arts & Scraps - Detroit
• Detroit Institute of Arts 
• Macomb County Parks and Recreation
• Oakland County Parks and Recreation - Madison Heights
• The Jewish Community Center - West Bloomfield 

Learn more about art therapy at the Henry Ford Cancer Institute.