Creative Workshops
for Mental Fitness
Art is more than self-expression - it is a powerful way to strengthen mental, physical, and emotional health.
This 4-workshop programme combines insights from neuroscience with practical coaching and art facilitation, offering evidence-informed creative practices that support resilience, wellbeing, and quality of life.
Each workshop begins with a short 15-minute talk led by Kariné Gazarian, PhD, offering practical tools and insights for maintaining mental fitness. This is followed by a guided art practice and time for reflection. No previous art experience is required - just curiousity and openness!
Workshop 1
Calming the Body with Line Drawing
Gentle ink and drawing exercises designed to regulate the nervous system, ease stress, and restore balance through breath and movement. Research shows that even brief art-making can reduce stress hormone levels, while conscious breathing supports the body’s natural calming response. This workshop offers a gentle space to notice the body and settle into the process.
Workshop 2
Stepping Out of Emotion through Music and Image
Listen to short pieces of music and respond with colours, shapes and marks. This practice encourages
externalising and gently distancing from feelings as they arise, creating space to observe rather than be caught up in them. Expressive arts research suggests that such non-verbal, time-limited activities can support mood regulation and provide a practical tool for moments of emotional overwhelm.
Workshop 3
Expanding Perspectives through Observational Drawing
Playful artistic challenges that strengthen focus, flexibility, and curiosity — encouraging a growth mindset and stimulating the brain. Take part in observational drawing exercises such as contour and negative-space drawing, practising careful attention to detail. These exercises support attentional control and foster cognitive flexibility. The session also invites participants to notice new perspectives and ways of thinking, supporting shifts in mindset.
Workshop 4
Cultivating Resilience with Creative Problem-Solving
Explore the power of collage - cutting, rearranging and combining materials to create new associations and imaginative solutions. These open-ended exercises support adaptive thinking, creative problem-solving, and resilience. Working alongside others also nurtures a sense of connection and shared reflection.
"Learning about my brain and how it's wired really helped me get behind myself, learning to give back so much compassion for the burnt out overwhelmed shell I'd become. Working closely together in a small group was nurturing and we were all fully engaged with supporting each other through challenges and celebrating the 'Aha' moments!"
Polly Hummond