The Anxiety Cure You’re Not Using
It's Easier Than You Think
Ever noticed how when you’re busy with a project, you don’t have time to overthink? But the moment life slows down, your brain starts spiraling into overanalysis, replaying awkward conversations from three years ago, or stressing over things you can’t control? That’s because our brains are wired to look for patterns, routines, and solutions. When we don’t give them something constructive to work on, they turn inward—and that’s when anxiety creeps in.
The good news? Creativity is one of the best ways to keep anxiety at bay.
Why Your Brain Needs a Job
Think of your mind as a computer running multiple processes in the background. When you have external tasks—work, hobbies, creative projects—your brain stays occupied. But when you’re idle, it starts scanning for problems, even if there aren’t any.
According to neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf, engaging in creative activities helps build new neural pathways, which improves cognitive flexibility and emotional regulation. Studies also show that activities like painting, knitting, or even doodling can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase dopamine (the feel-good hormone).
In short: if you want less anxiety, give your brain something better to do.
Creativity as an Antidote to Anxiety
The best part? You don’t need to be an artist or a master crafter. The act of creating—not the outcome—is what helps. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about engaging your brain in something outside of itself.
Here are some creative, low-pressure projects to try:
1. Try Easy DIY Arts & Crafts
Watercolour painting (no rules, just colours)
Embroidery or cross-stitch (relaxing and repetitive)
Clay sculpting or air-dry clay projects
Making friendship bracelets (yes, even as an adult!)
Bullet journaling or scrapbooking
2. Follow a YouTube Tutorial
Sometimes, all you need is a little guidance. Try:
Bob Ross painting tutorials (because happy trees make happy people)
DIY candle or soap-making
Wine bottle painting
Knitting or crocheting a simple scarf
3. Plan Something Fun
Map out a weekend getaway or staycation
Rearrange a room in your home
Plan a themed dinner night
Start a vision board for future goals
4. Build Something Small
A simple LEGO or model kit
A DIY planter box or terrarium
A puzzle (great for mindfulness)
5. Focus On Your Home
Reorganize your furniture
Create a balcony garden
Declutter your kitchen
Perfectionism Kills Creativity
One major creativity killer? Perfectionism. If you’re worried about getting it “right,” you’re missing the point. Creativity is about the process, not the result. The goal isn’t to create something Instagram-worthy—it’s to engage your brain in a way that stops it from spiraling into stress and anxiety.
Not Sure This Will Help Your Anxiety?
Have you ever noticed that when you’re cooking or baking, your mind quiets down? That’s because when you’re focused on measuring ingredients, stirring a sauce, or watching dough rise, there’s no room for overthinking about your personal life or thinking about work related stress. Your brain is fully engaged in the task, and just like that—anxiety takes a backseat.
The same applies to arts, crafts, and hands-on projects. When you immerse yourself in something creative, whether it's painting, woodworking, or even assembling a puzzle, it shifts your focus away from anxious thoughts. It might take some trial and error to find the activity that works best for you, but once you do, it becomes a reliable way to reset your mind.
If cooking or baking is already your thing, take it up a notch! Challenge yourself to cook a dish from a different country each week, try your hand at baking different types of bread, or experiment with desserts you’ve never made before. Not only will you build a fun new habit, but you’ll also turn your kitchen into a stress-free creative escape.
So go ahead, make a mess, create something weird, and enjoy the process.
If you find yourself stuck in overthinking, try shifting your focus outward. Your brain isn’t the enemy—it just needs a task. Creativity, in any form, is one of the best (and easiest) ways to redirect anxious energy into something productive. And who knows? You might just discover a new hobby along the way.
Ready to bring more creativity into your daily routine while reducing anxiety? Grab our free guide filled with inspiring activities designed to spark creativity and ease stress. It’s completely free—available down below so you can start exploring new creative outlets today!
