Mental Health and the art of living
Those of us who are naturally more sensitive are called “artsy”. By that I mean that we feel the ups and downs of life a little more keenly, and we usually let people know about it.
Over the years, I’ve struggled with that tendency, being tossed around by the daily challenges and paradoxes of being human, and spreading my general unease to those close to me.
Around my 50th year, out of necessity, I made some changes in my life to try to mitigate that, and it has helped immensely. Below is my list of suggestions for living artfully, with natural sensitivity enhanced and intact, while sparing those close to me my extra emotional baggage.
This list is really a list of basic human requirements. If we don’t do these things, our minds and bodies suffer. It’s not a prescription, however, just my suggestions.
- Vipassana meditation. A friend introduced me to this years ago, and I took a course: what an experience! During the pandemic, I returned to this daily practice, and have kept to it ever since, meditating 2 hours a day. That might seem like a lot of time to invest, but when I count the benefits, I can’t imagine how I ever lived without. The technique is taught in 10-day residential courses, free-of-charge, at centres around the world, and there is one just an hour away. It is a simple, non-sectarian practice: observing natural respiration and developing awareness of subtle sensations. Because it goes to the root of mental reactions, it requires ten days to quiet the mind and learn the basics. I’m less prone to anger, worry, distraction, and I am much more efficient with my work. I can’t recommend it highly enough. People of all ages and cultures experience huge benefits, and the courses fill up quickly. www.torana.dhamma.org.
- No alcohol. Recent evidence debunks older studies which reported that moderate alcohol is healthy. It is actually very risky and addictive for artist-types. For me, drinking is like rolling the dice with my emotions. I also tend to stretch the truth when under the influence, and that did no one any good. I used to be a regular drinker, but Vipassana meditation helped me beat this addiction.
- Getting outside. Fresh air literally resets our metabolism, and gives our homeostasis systems a boost. To add to the benefits, get your heart rate up!
- Cooking. Feeding ourselves (as opposed to letting a corporation do that) is essential to a healthier life. The closer you can get to the source of your food, the better. I love baking sourdough bread, and I call the helpful microorganisms my little “buddies”.
- Make art. Education research shows that creative training boosts confidence and decision-making abilities. Making art is good, as long as it can be done in a supportive environment and with a non-judgmental attitude.
- De-clutter. This is a catch-all entry for tidying up physical and mental clutter. It’s good for clear thinking. Do the dishes, and make time for quiet, screen-free activities.
- Stay in touch with people who matter. Maybe even try a paper letter!
There are probably more that can be added. Let me know what works for you!