Art as a Nervous System Ritual

In this week’s episode I’m opening up about something deeply personal and often overlooked: how art can become a nervous system ritual - not just a creative act, but a way to soothe, ground and reconnect with ourselves when life feels too noisy.

If you’ve ever felt your mind spinning at 2am, caught in anxious loops, or weighed down by the constant pressure for “more” - you are not alone. I live with OCD, anxiety, and the kind of insomnia that loves to wake me up when I need rest the most. Over time I’ve discovered that my painting practice isn’t just about making landscapes - it’s my sanctuary, my rebellion against overwhelm and a way to calm my restless mind. In the episode I share my thoughts on:

• Art as a healing ritual - it’s about more than the finished piece, it’s a way to meet yourself with softness and presence.
• Repetition that can soothe - gentle, rhythmic marks or brushstrokes can help break the cycles of intrusive spiralling thoughts.
• Creating a sanctuary - small things like calming music, candlelight or a cup of tea can help your nervous system feel safe to rest.
• The beauty of imperfection - your art practice can teach you that beauty doesn’t live in rigid control, it lives in trust, flow and surrender.

And if you're not already a member I’d love to welcome you inside my Abstract Horizons membership. Inside you’ll get monthly masterclasses and demos and a wonderful community of like-minded artists - all exploring how to create work that feels personal and expressive.

✨ Come and make your art your sanctuary.
Join Abstract Horizons here