8 Creative Activities for the Stressed Mind

When managing your stress, whether with daily chronic stress or a specific and 
challenging event in your life, you might occasionally prefer just doing something fun. 
This is where creative activities come to mind.

Being creative is not about being artistic, but instead just using the creative part of your 
brain where you can focus on something enjoyable, without the pressure of being 
productive or trying to be perfect.

Here are 8 creative activities for when you feel stressed.


1. Draw or Color

The first activity is a simple one, but it’s okay if you are not an artistic person. You can 
draw or doodle anything and everything. It doesn’t have to look any certain way. Just 
sketching or doodling shapes, using colors, getting out an adult coloring book, are all 
creative and can help distract your mind from whatever is causing you stress. 

The great thing about drawing is that you can do it just about anywhere. You don’t need 
a fancy sketchbook to draw. You can get a journal, notebook, or even blank printer 
paper and all you need is a pencil or pen, and you’re good to go.


2. Crafts

Engaging in crafts such as knitting, crocheting, or sewing can be calming and enjoyable. 
The repetitive motions and focus on creating something with your hands can help 
distract your mind from stress and promote relaxation.

This is another creative activity where you don’t really need a lot of talent to do it and 
benefit from it. Head to your local craft store and pick up a crafting kit where it comes 
with everything you need, including the instructions. There are so many things you can 
craft with simple items, basic instructions, and very little money.


3. Art Therapy

This one is for the artists out there! If you love creating art, whether or not you feel you 
are good at it, it can be really therapeutic for you. Art therapy involves using various art 
mediums such as drawing, painting, or coloring to express emotions, thoughts, and 
feelings. It can be a cathartic and soothing way to release stress and tension, while also 
tapping into your creative side.


4. Dance Your Heart Out

Dancing is a physical and creative activity that can help you release stress and express 
yourself. You can dance freely in your living room, take a dance class, or even try out 
different styles of dance. It can be a fun and energizing way to reduce stress and uplift 
your mood.

Have fun with it! Get your kids to join in, head to a club with friends, dance alone in your 
bedroom to your favorite music.


5. Photography

Taking photos, whether with a professional camera or simply using your smartphone, 
can be a creative way to capture moments, express yourself, and connect with your 
surroundings. Photography allows you to focus on the beauty around you, which can 
help shift your attention away from stressors.


6. Creative Writing

For writing, you really want it to be some form of creative writing, as opposed to writing 
for school or work. This might be in the form of poems, song lyrics, or short stories. 
Maybe you just jot down notes you have for a novel in the future. Any form of creative 
writing can really help with your stressed mind.


7. Listen to Music

Listening to music or playing a musical instrument can have a profound impact on 
reducing stress. Music has a unique ability to evoke emotions, change mood, and 
create a sense of calm. You can listen to your favorite music, play an instrument, or 
even sing along to relieve stress.


8. Work on a Vision Board

Lastly, consider putting together a vision board. These not only give you another activity 
to focus on, but it helps you look at more positive things and look into the future, instead 
of dwelling on your current stressful situation. 

You can do an old-fashioned vision board with pictures and words you cut from 
magazines, or print them from internet images. You can also put together a digital vision 
board with Pinterest or programs like Canva. 


