Quote:
Originally Posted by merrykate
I have had OCD all of my life, and one of the greatest sources of relief for me is art. In fact, I am studying art in college at the moment, because I find nothing squelches the OCD part of my brain better than creating.
Art helps me overcome the need for "perfection," because I know that whatever I make will never be perfect--or anything close. However, my OCD typically focuses morality and religion, constantly weighing distressing scenarios and possibilities in my head. Art is the only way I can fully quiet that constant flow of thoughts.
As Somber Scribbler posted, Zentangle is great. I found it distressing at first, because I felt like I couldn't get it 'right,' but it does result in a sort of 'zen,' as the name suggests. Times passes very quickly during Zentangle, so I highly recommend you give it a try.
Something that similarly works for me is drawing Celtic knots. You can get access to easy patterns online (YouTube is good) or in books (my library had quite a few). The patterns are made using a simple, grid-like structure. Like Zentangle, its repetition is a very peaceful process-- very refreshing for us OCD folks.
Mostly, I find art helps, because it allows the brain to switch into "off mode" for a little while. When my art stops, my OCD will start again, but it is easier to cope with because I've had a break--however small and seemingly insignificant.
Sorry, that was long (is rambling a sign of OCD too? )
Good luck to you!
Kate
P.S. Lovely art journal, Yogix!
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Thank you SO much for your post. It really helped me to see that it can be so useful. I'm so glad you've chosen art to study too. Sounds like it's working wonders for you!
I've been looking into zentangles and it looks like it could be really therapeutic for me. Going to give it a go! As well as the Celtic knots.
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