There are a lot of things that have crossed my mind since I have reduced or respectively omitted digital devices when I decided to go for a Handsfree February. I wondered in the beginning of the month what I would do with the spare time. It was a bit different when I stopped drinking, because the digital devices firstly lack the alcoholic depressant effect and secondly I used digital devices as part of the coping strategy.

Well, I have had a lot of time to think and sometimes I realize that I am reaching out for my phone when I am bored or I have the feeling I need to do something for my mood. It’s scary how this reminds me of cravings.

Apart from the fact, that it leaves a hollow feeling (I elaborated on the effects of doom scrolling on my psyche), I found a lot of things to do instead, but there are times when I just want to do something else, especially when it comes down to emotional regulation.

Then I came across an idea I long ago thought about in times of boredom, when I was still in the teaching business and after I listened to a podcast in which art becomes a form of self therapy.

This was the moment I bought a little blank sketchbook. I haven’t tried it in a big fashion yet, but the small drawings and doodles just reminded me of my time at school, when I tried to beat boredom in classes I didn’t like (which were a lot).

At the moment, it’s still not very structured or sorted, just simple doodles, but I found out that random scribbling or drawing simple patterns or even mandalas or whatever you like is giving my mind room to distract from bad feelings (where it may come down to a quick fix), but once creativity starts its magic, it really gets my brain into a creative process which sometimes feels like a flow already.

I am still in the process of trying out myself and I am still curious where it may lead to, but what I can say for sure is: It has a ver good impact and leads to ideas that may even lead to processes and outcomes not even related to drawing, but maybe music, wood work, outdoorsy stuff and God knows what.

I have opened the door to a new realm, and as long as it keeps me away from doom scrolling and empty pleasure bits, this new realm is more than welcome!

Until next time, keep up the faith in yourself and take one step at a time.