The Gift of Art: Creative Practices to Restore Peace During Busy Seasons

Facet Fridays — Art & Art Therapy Edition

December 12

Busy seasons have a way of demanding more than we have to give. Calendars fill, expectations rise, emotions run high—and before we realize it, our inner world becomes just as cluttered as our schedules. Yet in the middle of noise, pressure, and pace, God has already provided a gift that restores peace without asking us to strive harder.

That gift is art.

Not art as performance.

Not art as productivity.

But art as presence.

Art as a God-Given Regulator

Scripture reminds us that we are created in the image of a Creator. Creativity isn’t an extracurricular activity—it’s part of our design. When we engage in creative practices, we aren’t escaping responsibility; we are returning to alignment.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

Art therapy recognizes what Scripture has always known: the body, mind, and spirit are connected. When words fall short, creativity gives the soul a language. It slows the nervous system, creates safety, and allows what’s been held inside to gently surface—without force.

The polish doesn’t create the gem; it simply reveals its brilliance.

Why Peace Requires Practice (Not Perfection)

Peace isn’t passive. It’s cultivated.

During busy seasons, we often attempt to manage stress rather than minister to ourselves. Creative practice becomes a sacred pause—a yielding rather than a pushing.

Art doesn’t require talent.

It requires permission.

Permission to sit.

Permission to feel.

Permission to be unfinished.

This is why even five intentional minutes with a pencil, brush, fabric, or found object can shift the atmosphere of your heart and your home.

Three Creative Practices to Restore Peace

These practices are simple, accessible, and designed to meet you where you are—especially when time feels scarce.

1. Mark-Making as Prayer

Set aside judgment. Choose a pen, pencil, or marker. Begin making lines, shapes, or patterns without an outcome in mind. Let your breath lead your hand.

As you move, invite God into the space. This is not about creating something “beautiful”—it’s about releasing what’s heavy.

“Be still, and know that I am God.” — Psalm 46:10 (KJV)

Stillness often comes through motion.

2. Sacred Collage: Gathering What Remains

Using magazines, scrap paper, or even packaging from your week, create a small collage. Select pieces intuitively rather than logically. Ask yourself:

• What feels grounding?

• What feels hopeful?

• What feels honest?

This mirrors how God redeems what’s been discarded. Nothing is wasted—not even the fragments.

3. Artful Environments: Designing Peace

Art therapy doesn’t stop at the page. Your environment is a canvas.

During busy seasons, intentionally simplify one small space—a corner, a nightstand, a table. Incorporate:

• One meaningful object

• One calming texture

• One source of light

Design isn’t about perfection; it’s about intention. When your surroundings reflect peace, your nervous system follows.

Faith Meets the Creative Process

Jesus often withdrew to quiet places—not because the work wasn’t important, but because intimacy with the Father was essential.

Art offers us that same invitation.

When we create without striving, we practice trust.

When we create without comparison, we practice humility.

When we create without urgency, we practice rest.

This is discipleship through design.

Healing through creativity.

Stewardship through stillness.

A Personal Reflection

As a certified art therapy practitioner, designer, and servant leader, I’ve witnessed how creativity becomes a lifeline—especially in seasons of overwhelm. I’ve seen children regulate emotions through color. Adults process grief through texture. Homes transform simply by honoring what brings calm rather than chaos.

And I’ve experienced it myself.

When life feels loud, art brings me back to center. It reminds me that I am not behind. I am not lacking. I am held.

An Invitation Into Brilliant Living

This season, don’t add more to your to-do list. Add intention.

Let creativity become your quiet companion. Let art become a prayer. Let design serve your peace.

If you’re longing to integrate creative healing into your life, your home, or your family rhythms, I’d love to walk alongside you.

👉 Book your Discovery Call to explore art therapy-informed design, creative consultations, or custom art experiences.https://calendly.com/welcome-to-brilliant-living-facets-by-jem-discovery-call/45