Rock painting for mental health

Hello! Hope you are keeping well - Sending out positive vibes to you all yay!

I want to share my love for painting rocks. It is something I've gotten into more recently and am absolutely hooked on! You can paint rocks anywhere and everywhere, as its such as easy and portable activity. All you need is some rocks and paint pens! Simples :-)

It has been proven that being creative can reduce anxiety and as I am a very anxious person, I was willing to let my creative juices flow for the sake of my mental wellbeing.

Rock painting is one of those very easy to pick up hobbies. It's something that I believe anyone can do, after a trip to the garden centre of course! I bought a very big bag of rocks from my local garden centre for a bargain price. Super chuffed. As for actually painting the rocks, paint pens are the best and most handy piece of equipment you'll need. You could also get some acrylic paints and brushes if you're feeling super artistic and more confident in your skills. Paint pens are simple to use and you can create some really awesome designs in minutes. I use Artistro paint pens, which you can order from Amazon. They have a whole range of colours and different sized pens. I also recommend buying some varnish so that you can hide your rocks outdoors.

You can get as creative as you like with your rocks. I tend do more simple designs, featuring positive and uplifting quotes. Rainbows seem to be a common theme in my rocks...hehe. If you want some inspiration, I totally recommend joining some groups on Facebook. There's Kindness Rocks Art UK and also Suicide Prevention Rocks. There may also be one for your local area, so definitely worth having a looksy! Everyone is so kind and supportive and it is a wonderful community to be a part of.

Another side to rock painting, is that it can get you out and about. I know lots of people who hide their painted rocks for others to find. I've got a few to varnish so I can take them on walks with me. I really struggle with leaving the house, so I am hoping this will be a good motivator.

This particular hobby has really helped with my mental health. Especially with my BPD and my moods. I find it super helpful to just sit and focus on a rock, put on my favourite tunes and paint away! It grounds me and helps me to express how I am feeling at that moment in time. I owe a big thank you to a local group, and in particular a lovely lady called Debbie, for introducing me to the hobby.

I 100% say that if you struggling with your mental health, then take up a new hobby or project. Creativity is wonderful.

Happy rock painting!

Hugs,

Charlotte xx