Feeling a little frazzled lately? Same. Life’s chaos can hit like a whirlwind—emails, deadlines, and the relentless ping of notifications. Enter: pottery painting. Yep, that relaxing pastime you might’ve last tried as a kid is making a big comeback, and spoiler alert—it’s not just for the artsy types.
Whether you’re an artistic prodigy or can’t draw a stick figure to save your life, pottery painting offers surprising benefits for your mind and body. Let’s dive into why this age-old craft might just be your new antidote to modern stress.
What’s the deal with cortisol, anyway?
Cortisol is your body’s stress hormone. It’s handy in small doses (like when you need to leg it to catch a train), but when it’s constantly pumping through your system, it can lead to all sorts of problems. Think poor sleep, anxiety, mood swings, even weight gain. Not fun.
This is where activities like pottery painting come in. Research shows creative outlets can help reduce cortisol levels, calm the nervous system, and leave you feeling way more zen.
The mental perks of pottery painting
Mindfulness, without the awkward meditation pose
Pottery painting is basically mindfulness in action. When you’re focused on choosing colours, steadying your brush, and filling in tiny details, it’s hard to think about anything else. It’s like a mental “off” switch for all the noise in your head.
Creative expression = catharsis
Sometimes words don’t cut it. Getting your emotions out through art can be super therapeutic, even if you don’t realise it at the time. And unlike other crafts, pottery painting is low-pressure. It’s less about perfection and more about the process.
A mood booster in disguise
There’s a genuine sense of accomplishment that comes with creating something with your own hands. You get to leave the studio with a piece of art you made, which can be a nice little confidence boost. Plus, dopamine (your brain’s happy chemical) gets a nice kick when you’re having fun.
The physical benefits
Reduced muscle tension
When your mind relaxes, your body follows suit. Spending a few hours hunched over a pottery piece may seem like it would add tension, but studies show focused, repetitive tasks actually help release built-up stress in your muscles.
Better sleep
The calming effect of lowering cortisol levels through creative activities can help you wind down for bed more easily. So if you’re the type to stare at the ceiling at 2 a.m., this might be a game-changer.
Improved fine motor skills
OK, this one’s a bit of a bonus, but handling a paintbrush and working with detailed designs can improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Not just good for your stress levels, but for keeping your brain sharp too.
Why pottery painting is different
Sure, colouring books or knitting can have similar benefits, but there’s something uniquely satisfying about pottery painting. Maybe it’s the tactile experience of holding clay. Or the anticipation of seeing your finished piece fired and glazed. Whatever it is, it’s grounding in a way that digital hobbies just can’t match.
It’s also an easy activity to do solo or with friends. Want some quiet “me” time? Perfect. Fancy catching up with mates in a chill setting? Even better.
How to get started
Look up local pottery studios—many offer drop-in sessions or workshops, so you don’t need to commit to a long course. Don’t overthink it. You don’t need to be a Picasso to enjoy this. Pick a mug, plate, or even a tiny figurine and just start. Bring your own vibe—music, a cup of tea, or even a cheeky glass of wine (if your studio allows it) can make the experience even more relaxing.
Final thoughts
Pottery painting is more than just a pretty way to spend an afternoon. It’s a practical, accessible tool for lowering stress and improving your mental and physical health.
So, the next time life feels overwhelming, swap the doom-scrolling for a paintbrush. Your cortisol levels will thank you, and hey, you’ll probably walk away with a cute new mug too.
Let’s paint our way to calm, shall we?
