Slowing down isn’t always easy—even in summer, when things are supposed to feel more relaxed. Many people still find themselves feeling restless, mentally busy, or just not fully “in the moment.”
If you’re looking for simple ways to shift gears, calm your mind, or ease anxiety, a quiet creative moment might help. You don’t need special materials or any kind of art training—just a few natural items and a bit of space to pause.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or just curious to try something new, these 3 nature-inspired art ideas are designed to help you unwind and reconnect—without pressure or perfection.
1. Make a Nature Mandala
What you’ll need: Leaves, petals, twigs, pebbles—whatever you find outdoors
Where to do it: Backyard, balcony, park, garden path
How it works: Create a circular pattern using items from nature. You can focus on balance and symmetry, or simply arrange them in a way that feels good. Once you're done, take a photo to preserve your creation.
Why it helps: This kind of slow, focused handwork can help settle your thoughts and bring a sense of order and calm—especially if your mind feels cluttered. Mandala-style art has a long history as a meditative practice, and it can be surprisingly grounding.
2. Paint a Rock
What you’ll need: Smooth stones, acrylic paints or paint pens, and a bit of time
Where to do it: Kitchen table, porch, or outside on a picnic table
How it works: Paint a pattern, a scene from nature, or even a word or phrase that resonates with you. You don’t need to aim for anything polished or Instagram-ready—this is about the act of creating.
Why it helps: Working on a small surface encourages focus and playfulness, which can interrupt cycles of overthinking. You can keep your painted rocks as reminders or leave them in your neighbourhood for someone else to discover.
3. Take Mindful Nature Photos
What you’ll need: Your phone or camera
Where to do it: On a walk, in the yard, or just sitting quietly outdoors
How it works: Look for small details that catch your attention—shapes, shadows, colours, textures. Take a few photos without aiming for the perfect shot. This is more about noticing than performing.
Ideas for using your photos:
• Save them to a “calm moments” album
• Print and add to a journal
• Pair with a quote or feeling
• Set one as your phone background to remind you to pause
Why it helps: This kind of visual noticing helps shift your attention from internal noise to external awareness. It’s a form of gentle mindfulness that can support stress relief and presence—without needing to sit still or meditate.
It’s Okay to Keep It Simple
These activities are meant to be low-pressure, flexible, and accessible. You don’t need expensive materials, a specific setting, or artistic skill. It’s not about the final product—it’s about creating a small pocket of calm in your day.
Whether you’re managing anxiety, recovering from burnout, or just feeling the mental weight of constantly “doing,” these creative pauses can help.
Looking for Support Beyond These Practices?
I offer 1:1 virtual art therapy for adults in Ontario, including support for:
• High-functioning anxiety
• Stress management and burnout recovery
• Creative self-expression and emotional processing
You don’t need to consider yourself “artistic” to benefit from art therapy. It’s about exploring thoughts and emotions in a non-judgemental, non-clinical space—with the support of a trained therapist.
Reach out to book a session or learn more.
Hope you find some moments of calm and creativity this summer.
