And we’re talking both physical and mental health. Let’s list some of the benefits.
Less stress
When it comes to stress relief, art has always been a helpful tool. For example, there is evidence that looking at art can help you feel less stress. And now it’s actually proven that this effect is even more powerful if you make the art yourself.
An American study found that 3 out of 4 participants felt less stress when they were making art (from drawing to sculpting with clay). Even more interesting: the skill of the participant made no difference. The effect was just as powerful for beginners as it was for experienced artists.
More focus
When you’re behind the potter’s wheel, doing some sculpting or working with moulds, you’re only thinking of one thing: the clay in your hands. After all, pottery is not easy: there are many things you have to focus on. It demands all of your attention.
And that means you don’t have time to dwell on what went wrong yesterday or today. Or to worry about tomorrow. The only thing on your mind is the clay. It’s not only a very welcome break for your mind, it also helps you get better at focusing all of your attention on one thing. A skill that you’ll be able to use in many other situations.
Your choice!
What type of clay do you want to use? What kind of pot do you want to make? What shape do you want to create, what decorations will you add, and what colours will you choose for the glaze? For each of your creations, you make one creative decision after another. And every time you’re completely free to choose.
That means the finished result is complety and utterly you, it’s a unique piece. It’s the result of your creativity, and no one else’s. Talk about satisfying!
Fitness for your hands
It might not feel like it, but making pottery activates a lot of muscles in your hand. The more time you spend wheel throwing, handbuilding, or working with moulds, the more you train those muscles. Day after day they’ll get stronger and more supple.
That’s exactly why pottery is sometimes recommended as a treatment for people with rheumatism or arthritis. With promising results!
Pushing your limits
Once you have mastered a particular form, you start thinking about trying something new. Because no one wants to make the same thing again and again. And that means you’re taking on a new challenge again and again, while constantly learning.
But that’s not the only way you’re exploring new horizons. Because the more time you spend learning pottery, the more new people you meet. That’s not just great for when you need advice on your latest project, but also for when you feel like a chat.
… and so much more!
The five things we listed are by no means the only benefits. Every potter has their own reasons for loving the clay. What’s the main benefit of pottery for you?
