“Creativity Takes Courage”: The Special Healing Power of Art

Being Brave - Because Creativity Takes Courage

“Creativity takes courage.” These three simple words from the artist Henri Matisse hold more truth than many of us care to realise.

This famous quote by Henri Matisse might sound simple, but it speaks volumes. To create is to be brave. It means letting go of control, stepping into the unknown, and allowing something new to come into being. Often, these creations come straight from the heart. Creating something, anything, is therefore an act of vulnerability. Whether it's picking up a paintbrush for the first time in years, doodling without direction, or blending colours just to see what happens, creativity asks us to trust ourselves. To let go. And that can feel terrifying.

At first, this can feel intimidating. Many of us carry the belief that we’re “not creative” or “not good at art.” But creativity isn’t about being perfect. It isn’t even about making something beautiful. It’s about expression. Presence. Healing. And courage. Indeed, creativity can also feel incredibly freeing.

At my well-being art workshops in Wales, the focus isn’t on making a perfect painting or a masterpiece for your living room wall. In fact, it’s not really about the finished piece at all. It’s about the process. It’s about the way your shoulders drop as you swirl colour across a page. The quiet joy in getting lost in the moment. The steady rhythm of brushstrokes and breath. It’s about healing, gently, quietly, and with kindness.

Because yes, creativity takes courage, and that’s what makes it so powerful. Let's explore more.

It’s Not About the End Result

Let’s start here, and I cannot emphasise this point more strongly, you don’t need to be an artist to benefit from these workshops.

You don’t need to know how to draw a straight line or mix the “right” shade of blue. You don’t need to impress anyone. These workshops are for you. For your well-being. For your peace of mind.

So often, people stop themselves from making art because they’re afraid of doing it “wrong.” They’re worried about being judged or embarrassed that their piece won’t look “good enough.” But here’s the truth: there is no right way to be creative. So, I invite you to release that pressure. You don’t need a clear picture in mind. You don’t need to follow rules or replicate a reference. You just need to show up. To explore. To be curious.

I create a warm, welcoming space where you can let go of worries. My workshops are built around mindfulness, not mastery. You’re invited to slow down, tune in, and experience the feeling of making art. And the magic is, once you stop chasing perfection, something beautiful always emerges.

You see, creativity takes courage because it asks us to be honest. To face the blank page, the fresh canvas, and allow whatever needs to come out, to come out. And that process? Doing it without judgment? That’s where the healing begins.

The Importance of the Process

When we let go of expectations and embrace the creative process, something shifts. Creativity takes courage because we stop performing and start feeling. We become present. We enter what psychologists call a “flow state.”

In this state, your brain becomes deeply engaged, not in stress or worry, but in focused awareness. Research shows that during creative flow, your gamma brain waves increase. These are high-frequency waves linked to problem-solving, memory, and heightened perception.

Even better, gamma activity also supports the release of your feel-good chemicals: serotonin, oxytocin, and dopamine. These are the same neurotransmitters that regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall emotional well-being. So, as you glide that brush across the paper or lose yourself in the textures of mixed media, your brain is quietly thanking you. Your heart rate may slow. Your shoulders relax. You might even smile without realising it. This isn’t just an art session. You’re calming your nervous system. You’re reducing stress. You’re reconnecting with joy.

That’s why creativity takes courage, not just to start, but to stay in the process. To keep coming back. Even when you don’t know what you’re making. Even when it feels messy or strange.

The Science Behind the Joy

The benefits of art-making are backed by extensive research (please explore Science Direct here for a multitude of informative articles based on the subject) . Engaging in creative activities has been shown to:

• Lower stress levels

• Boost mood and resilience

• Improve focus and memory

• Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression

• Enhance overall well-being

And the best part? You don’t have to be an “artist” to get these benefits. You just need to understand that creativity takes courage, and by being brave, your body will reap fantastic rewards.

In fact, letting go of that pressure is what allows the magic to happen.

My workshops are designed to help you ease into this mindset. Through guided prompts, gentle encouragement, and a focus on exploration rather than outcome, you’re free to play, experiment, and express yourself without fear of judgment.

Overcoming the Obstacles

We all carry barriers to creativity. If you’ve ever said, “I can’t draw,” “I’m not creative,” or “Mine won’t be as good as theirs,” you’re not alone. These thoughts are common, but they don’t have to define your experience.

Let’s look at a few of the usual suspects:

• Self-doubt: That little voice that says you're not good enough? It doesn’t belong in your creative space.

• Self-judgment: Comparing your work to others or your own expectations? Let it go. Comparison is stealing your joy from the moment.

• Fear of mistakes: In my workshops, mistakes don’t exist. Every mark is part of your well-being journey.

• Perfectionism: Perfection is an illusion. And it’s exhausting. Embrace the messy, the wobbly lines, the “imperfect.” That’s where the true magic lies.

That’s why creativity takes courage. Because it requires us to move past fear and into freedom. To choose self-expression over self-criticism. To allow ourselves to play again, without needing permission. Tap into your inner child, be curious and let go.

What Happens in My Workshops?

It is important to me to create a calm and nurturing space for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore art in a supportive environment. My well-being workshops are rooted in mindfulness, creativity, nature, and connection.

You can expect:

• A warm welcome and no pressure to perform

• Time to explore different materials, textures, and techniques

• Gentle guidance and prompts to spark your imagination

• A space that encourages self-expression, not perfection

• A kind community of like-minded souls who are there for the same reasons

There is no right or wrong way to participate. You are free to explore at your own pace. And whether you leave with a finished piece or just a splash of colour on your canvas, you’ll walk away having gained something more meaningful, a moment of peace, clarity, and connection to yourself.

Why This Matters for Your Well-being

We live in a world that constantly asks us to do more, be more, and achieve more. In all that noise, we rarely give ourselves the chance to just be.

That’s why stepping into a creative space is such a radical act of self-care. Engaging in art, especially when guided by someone passionate and kind, offers a break from the noise. It invites you to slow down. To connect with your senses. To breathe. And to simply create, just because it feels good.

Because creativity, when you let it, becomes a form of healing.

It becomes a way to process emotions, calm your nervous system, and reconnect with joy. A way to remember that creativity takes courage, but it also gives back so much in return.

Come As You Are

You don’t need fancy tools. You don’t need experience. You don’t need a plan. All you need is a little willingness and the willingness to begin.

When you attend one of my workshops, you’re joining a space where your inner critic is gently asked to take a backseat. Where curiosity is encouraged. Where “mistakes” are welcomed. Where healing happens quietly, through movement, colour, and connection.

And yes, creativity takes courage, but so does caring for yourself. You are worthy of that care. And this is one small, powerful way to begin.

Now you Know Creativity Takes Courage, Ready to Explore?

If you’re curious about joining a workshop with me, now’s the time. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, inspiration, or simply a break from everyday stress, my workshops offer a safe and supportive way to reconnect with your creative self and boost your well-being in the process.

Let go of the outcome. Embrace the process. Remember that creativity takes courage, and it’s a courage you already have.

To learn more, click here for more details. Alternatively, I have a fantastic workshop coming up in July. Please follow this link to learn more about it and book your place.