Getting Creative Despite Feeling Blue

It’s difficult not to feel at least a little blue in the midst of this coronavirus pandemic. I bet even the most positive people are feeling the effects of this life upheaval. For those of us with rare diseases and compromised immune systems, it can be especially frightening.

Since my sarcoidosis diagnosis, I have found that one of the best ways to lift myself out of the doldrums is with creative work. So, one recent afternoon I pulled out beading supplies. Then, I utilized my blue mood as a basis for my projects.

I put together simple pieces that I made without instructions. Because we have a mandatory shutdown of businesses in our state, I used only supplies I already had at home.

(Photo by Kate Spencer)

I believe the outcome of my beading projects was both effective and productive. Blue now represents calmness and peacefulness in my mind, not depressed or discouraged. Additionally, I have several finished pieces to show for my time. Putting my creativity to work in this way got me thinking about other projects to tackle, as well.

In a previous column, I wrote about the calming and positive effects of knitting. Beading also can create a meditative state, which can be therapeutic.

If you need inspiration, plenty of tutorials are available online. For project ideas, try YouTube or retail craft stores such as Michaels. I previously have taken classes with artists who now offer free online sessions during the pandemic. Check out artist Suzi Banks Baum as an example.

Engaging in creative work won’t change what’s going on in the world outside. However, it does offer some much-needed respite from the news and the panic. Additionally, it gives you something constructive and uplifting to do while waiting out this storm.

Stay safe, be well, and keep creating!

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Note: Sarcoidosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sarcoidosis News or its parent company, Bionews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to sarcoidosis.