Art Journalling: Creative Self-Care for 2025
This year, I'm on a mission to create art just for the sheer joy of it. Just pure, unfiltered fun for ME. Sure, running a small business can make it feel a bit selfish to indulge in my artsy time, but I’ve learned over the years that treating myself to creative self-care is incredibly important for my health, wellbeing and my business. When I carve out time for me, it sends positive vibes into the world in the best possible ways.
Creating art is good for your soul. There’s so much joy and happiness in the creativity, that’s why I became a creative guide: I truly believe everyone deserves and needs daily art and creativity in their life, and I want to encourage you to make it!
Even if you don't consider yourself an artist, the act of creating can be incredibly rewarding. It's not about creating a masterpiece, but the journey and feelings it brings. Grab that brush, pen, or any tool that speaks to you, and let your imagination take flight. Dive into the process and watch the magic unfold when you allow your creativity to flow freely. Remember, there are no rules— only infinite possibilities waiting for you.
My art journal is my go-to sanctuary for creative self-care, always handy, ready to go whenever I need it.
For me, art journaling is a treasure trove of endless possibilities! Every page is a fresh start for stories waiting to be unleashed. It’s my colorful playground, overflowing with shapes, splashes, and textures where my creativity and imagination run wild, trying new ideas, techniques, and supplies. It’s my safe space where I can explore my style, develop my personal color palette and grow as an artist. It’s one of my passions and I can’t wait to share with you throughout the year!
Playtime
Who says an art journal can only hold masterpieces? Sure, that's the usual story, but guess what? It's YOUR canvas, and your art journal can be a wild, whimsical wonderland of whatever your heart desires!
Imagine a vibrant playground bursting with colors, shapes, and textures, where your imagination can frolic and explore. Just ten minutes of “playtime” every day can spark your creativity, kick stress to the curb, and give that terrifying blank page a run for its money! Each playful moment is an opportunity to reconnect with your inner child, inviting you to see the world through wide-eyed wonder. It's in these bursts of joyful exploration that fresh ideas can take root, blossoming into amazing adventures. After all, creativity thrives on a playful spirit!
How cool would it be to have a whole bunch of journals? One for wild adventures and another just for “serious art” if you’re scared to let loose in your main journal. In my Artist’s Journey workshop, we explore four different page layouts and tons of techniques, if you’d like to explore together!
Creative Self-love
Being fully present in the moment and taking time for yourself is one of the most important parts of art journaling. It isn’t truly self-care without it. When I dive into me-time, it sends waves of creativity into my life and art. Unfortunately, my guilty conscience often drags me back to the grind in order to be productive instead of selfish, leaving my journal collecting dust.
Last year, I had a lightbulb moment: taking time for myself isn't selfish at all—it's essential. In these moments of solitude and reflection I tap into my inner well of creativity and unlock new ideas and inspiration. Now, I make it a priority to art journaling and create just for fun, because, let’s face it, playtime is a serious part of my creative process. I've learned to silence the nagging voice that says rest is laziness and welcome the joy of self-care with open arms. Each splash of color in my journal fills me with purpose and a deeper bond to my art, letting me dive into my work with fresh eyes and an open heart.
Priorities
What if you carved out and scheduled some creative self-care into your calendar? What if you gave yourself permission to unleash your inner artist and made it a top priority.
I’ve discovered, scheduling really helps me block out me time and holds me accountable. Once it’s on my calendar, it’s like magic—suddenly, I’m telling my friends I’ve got big plans to create, paint or art journal. There’s a sense of excitement, knowing I've dedicated time to nurture my creativity. This practice helps me prioritize my passions and reminds me to keep commitments to myself. I anticipate these moments of self-expression, where my imagination runs wild, and I can explore new ideas without distractions. It's amazing how a little planning can make such a big difference in creating a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Another great way to take creative time for yourself, is to sign up for a workshop, whether in-person or online. Signing up for a workshop instantly boosts your commitment levels and makes it fun to say “Sorry, I’m busy tonight, got a workshop to enjoy!"
Here are two great workshops for you:
Stay Committed!
Tell me, what’s your plan this week for some creative self-care?