Feeling Burnt Out? Rediscover Your Childhood Joy Through Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts holds a special place in all of our hearts. It unlocks the part of

us that still wants to create and explore without any limitations. In a world where so many college students are burnt out from constant deadlines, stress of studying for exams, and pressure to get good grades, arts and crafts offer a nostalgic escape. Taking the time to make something allows you to have a moment to breathe, which can help reduce your anxiety and stress. With the busyness of college life, reconnecting with arts and crafts reminds students that peace and happiness can be found in bright and simple moments that offer a break for their minds.

Stress Relief Through Creativity - The Science Behind Arts and Crafts

College students are notoriously stressed out. As college students, we can attest to the fact that the common stereotype of a student on their fifth cup of coffee of the day and running on 30 minutes of sleep before a test is all too real. Needless to say, college students are in desperate need of some stress relief.

So, where does arts and crafts come into play? It turns out that doing simple arts and crafts - regardless of the person’s skill with art - can drastically reduce levels of cortisol in the brain. Cortisol, essentially, is the chemical that is responsible for feeling stressed out. A study conducted by Girija Kaimal (EdD) at Drexel University found that 75% of the study participants saw lower levels of cortisol over a 45 minute duration making art, regardless of previous experience with arts and crafts. The decrease in cortisol levels differed from person to person, but showed a trend in younger people experiencing the biggest drop. This goes to show even more that college students could benefit immensely from even a brief arts and crafts session. 

Bringing Back the Simplicity of Childhood

Arts and Crafts bring simplicity back into our lives, serving as a refreshing break from academic stress. It can be as easy as coloring in a coloring book. It is a great way for college students to connect with those around them. The shared experience of creating something together can create a community environment like when we were kids. Bringing all of us college students back to a simple childhood when our biggest worries were when we could have our next snack or play next. By allowing ourselves to partake in arts and crafts we can get one step closer to being a kid again

What was your favorite craft growing up?

• Friendship Bracelets
• Origami
• Coloring
• Clay/Play-doh