Sculpting Serenity – let pottery help relieve the tension and promote relaxation for you
I heard this too often, that pottery is a therapeutic and effective way to relieve stress. I wholeheartedly agree as someone who has been practising this craft for a long time. Pottery can be a calming and fulfilling activity. However, like many potters, ceramists, and artists who work in this field, I have experienced my fair share of occupational injuries, which is another topic for discussion the next time.
Pottery in all forms, for example, wheel-throwing, sculptural, hand-building, etc., is beneficial for the mind, soul and physical health.
To name a few potential benefits:
- Stress reduction: Working with clay and creating something with your hands can be a calming, meditative experience. It may help you focus on the present moment and reduce stress levels.
- Improved mental health: Engaging in a creative activity like hand-building with clay can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem, which can be beneficial for overall mental health.
- Physical relaxation: Kneading, shaping, and moulding clay can be physically relaxing and may help release tension in the body.
- Increased mindfulness: Creating with clay requires focus and attention to detail, which can help cultivate mindfulness and present-moment awareness.
- Improved fine motor skills: Working with porcelain can help improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which may be beneficial for individuals with certain conditions or disabilities.
- Creative expression: Hand-building with porcelain provides an outlet for creative expression and can be a way to process emotions and experiences.
- Social connection: Participating in a pottery class or studio can provide opportunities for social connection and community building.
Why should we reduce stress?
Stress contributes to a weakened immune system and other unhealthy behaviours. Therefore, managing stress through healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, meditation, social support, and therapy is essential to reduce the risk of chronic stress.
With Singapore’s fast-paced and highly competitive environment, many struggle to keep up with the demands of work, family, and personal life.
In Singapore, we are known for our strong work ethic, and the country has been dubbed by Vulcan Post as the “workaholic capital of the world.” With long working hours, heavy workloads, and the pressure to perform at a high level are common issues faced by many employees in Singapore.
Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world, and the high cost of living can cause financial stress for many residents. Housing, transportation, and education are among the most significant expenses for most families, and the pressure to keep up with the cost of living can be overwhelming. According to a survey by the National Youth Council, more than half of young adults in Singapore feel stressed about their finances, with housing costs cited as the primary concern.
As a family-oriented society, family expectations can add to the stress levels of many individuals. Parents may feel pressure to provide for their families and ensure their children’s success. In contrast, children may feel stressed about academic performance and meeting their parents’ expectations.
Lastly, not to forget social pressures can also contribute to stress in Singapore. The emphasis on academic and career success can create a highly competitive environment, and the pressure to conform to societal norms and expectations can be overwhelming for some individuals. A survey by the Mental Health Foundation found that social media use can contribute to stress and anxiety, as individuals may feel pressure to present a perfect image of themselves online.
In conclusion, stress is a pervasive issue in Singapore and worldwide. But it can be managed and should not be taken lightly.
If it’s not pottery, it might be other ways, as everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different strategies to find the ones that work best for you.