Crafting Polymer Clay: Mindfulness Through Sculpting
Hobbies and crafts are a great way to unwind, relax, and relieve stress. One such hobby is crafting polymer clay. Polymer clay is a versatile medium that can be molded into endless shapes and forms that can range from functional to decorative. In this article, we’ll explore the practice of crafting polymer clay as a mindfulness tool, learn how it helps with focus and concentration, cultivates the practice of being present in the moment, and can lead to personal growth and transformation.
Crafting as Therapy
Crafting has been proven to help reduce stress and anxiety. According to a study by The British Journal of Occupational Therapy, crafting increases dopamine levels in the brain which is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. When we are engaged in creating art, the brain releases dopamine which in turn triggers feelings of happiness and relaxation. Furthermore, crafting can help us disconnect from technology, social media, and any other digital interruptions that make us feel overwhelmed.
Crafting Polymer Clay Helps With Focus and Concentration
Polymer clay’s texture and pliability are perfect for working with your hands. The physical process of working the clay requires a concentrated effort as well as a combination of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Working on a polymer clay project requires intense focus and concentration, which is similar to the process of meditation. Crafting with polymer clay not only helps us become more focused and present in the moment, but it can also help to increase attention span and extend periods of concentration.
Being Present in the Moment
Mindfulness is the state of being present in the moment, without judgment of oneself or others. Crafting with polymer clay can be an excellent tool for developing mindfulness and cultivating present moment awareness. The process of crafting with polymer clay is slow and methodical, and it requires us to pay attention to the details of the project we are working on. Mindfulness is achieved by focusing on the details, textures, and visual elements of the clay.
Polymer Clay Crafting Leads to Personal Growth and Transformation
Crafting with polymer clay can be a transformative and life-enhancing activity. It can be a fresh start in your life, where you can develop new skills, explore patterns, and color schemes you might not have done before. Regularly engaging in the craft can help you to develop personal goals regarding sculpting, painting and perfecting your creations which can be more deeply related to your personal goals outside of polymer clay art. Over time, the skills you learn and develop through polymer clay can be applied to other areas of your life to make you a better, more well-rounded individual. Crafting is one of those things you can never stop learning and practicing.
The possibilities are limitless, just like the colors and patterns of polymer clay. You can use polymer clay as a type of self-discovery to help you see what materials and ideas draw you in, and what techniques you enjoy the most. It can also be a way to challenge oneself to experiment and keep trying things that could bring new things in your life that will help with personal growth and well-being.
In conclusion
Crafting with polymer clay can have transformative and life-enhancing benefits for your mind and body, which can assist with self-improvement and personal growth. Exploring polymer clay art is just one active and engaging way that anyone can easily incorporate into their daily life to help achieve mindfulness. Remember that anyone can start crafting with polymer clay at any time and through practice, will progressively become more skilled and accomplished. Try it out, and see how polymer clay crafting can improve your focus, reduce stress and anxiety, and transform your life.