The calming benefits of watercolour painting for war widows, defence and veteran families.
Picture yourself sitting on a picnic rug under the shade of a large oak tree. The sun is shining down between the bright green leaves onto your lap. You sit next to an art book, its page blank and waiting, surrounded by paint pots in every colour of the rainbow. You hold a paintbrush in your hand, a jar of water glinting in the light, waiting for the adventure to begin. Taking your brush, you wet your paper, letting your mind wander with each stroke across the blank page. Listen to your body. How does it want to move? What can you feel? What might you want to draw and create?
Watercolour painting offers a powerful journey of self-discovery and healing through non-verbal interaction with the elements of water, paper, and colour. In this process, you engage with your inner child, listening, holding, and playing with them as you express yourself through the fluid motion of water and paint. This act of holding space for yourself is a vital part of wellbeing, as it encourages you to check in with yourself and ask, “What do I need right now?” By connecting with these elements, you allow yourself the freedom to express what words often cannot.
Art therapists often use watercolour painting with clients due to its forgiving and unpredictable nature, allowing for deep exploration of one’s inner world and experiences. The fluidity and layered properties of watercolour mirror the process of unpacking and healing from trauma, as it invites you to listen to your body and express emotions beyond words. As you engage in this sensory, mindful process, you may uncover surprising insights and moments of calm, rediscovering parts of yourself in unexpected ways. By letting go of conscious thought and allowing your body to lead, you give your inner child the time and space to heal and express itself freely.
For war widows, defence and veteran families, creative activities like watercolour painting can provide a way to process emotions, find solace, and calm the mind. The act of painting can be a quiet retreat and a great activity for all age groups.
Why not give watercolour painting a try? Register for our upcoming workshop online here.
