Try this calming watercolor exercise for moms. Paint your own star constellations for a relaxing, creative escape.
As moms, we often find ourselves lost in the daily routine, focusing on everyone’s needs but our own. It’s time to change that narrative with a splash of creativity. I want to introduce you to a calming exercise that’s not just a creative exercise but a journey to the stars – right from your kitchen table. Perfect for those evenings when the kids are asleep and you have that precious moment to yourself, this star constellation watercolor activity is your way to calm, play, and imagination.
This artistic exercise particularly benefits moms seeking a mental escape from daily stressors. The act of painting can be deeply meditative, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Creating your own constellations engages the imagination, offering a playful break from routine thinking patterns.
By focusing on the task of connecting stars, you engage in a form of mindfulness, which can be incredibly grounding. This process helps momentarily set aside the ongoing list of responsibilities and worries, providing a much-needed mental break.
Please let me know if you’ve tried this calming watercolor exercise; I would love to see it.
You can find a small video of this exercise on my Instagram @thecreativecooldown
Supplies used:
Watercolor paper 300 grams (Arches), watercolor paint (Winsor & Newton), acrylic markers (Ohuhu), paint brush (Da Vinci), paper towel, and washi tape.
Alternative supply suggestions:
You can use your kids’ watercolor paints or other paint.
Don’t have any of those? You can also color your background with colored pencils, crayons, or markers. Use a pen or a fineliner as an alternative for the acrylic markers.
Step 1: Paint your background
Before you start, take a deep breath. Let go of any thoughts that have been troubling you.
Start by selecting a watercolor for your background. While dark blue is a classic choice for a night sky, feel free to pick any color that resonates with you.
Gently paint the entire page with your chosen color. The process of applying watercolor itself is calming, so take your time and enjoy the smoothness of the paint.
Allow the paint to completely dry.
Step 2: Add your stars
Once your background is dry, take your acrylic marker and dot your page. These dots represent stars, so distribute them randomly across the paper.
Use a contrasting color compared to your background to make them stand out like stars.
Step 3: Create your own star constellations
Now for the fun part: connect these dots in any pattern you like to create your own constellations. There’s no right or wrong here – just let your creativity lead the way.
Through this exercise, you’ll not only create a beautiful piece of art but also give yourself a moment of calm and creative freedom. It’s a reminder that amidst the busyness of being a mom, you deserve to pause and enjoy the stars, even if they’re the ones you’ve created on paper.
If you liked this exercise, you might also like my Tree pattern exercise.