“Before my brain tumour diagnosis in 2021, I was a Hampshire education adviser, a single mum, and someone who filled every hour being busy. Creativity didn't feature much in my life.  What followed surgery — the fatigue, the lost career, the identity I no longer recognised — led me, almost by accident, to a mandala colouring book and a set of cheap acrylics. And then to something I hadn't expected: every time I created, my neurological symptoms eased. The brain fog lifted. The overwhelm stepped back. The anxiety quietened.

I began to understand that what I'd stumbled into was mindful art - a genuine, restorative rest that most of us never give ourselves.

I founded Mind Unwind to share what I discovered, because I believe these tools belong to everyone. Not just people in recovery. Not just people who think of themselves as creative. Anyone who is tired, overwhelmed, or simply running on empty.

I show people that creativity does not have to be a luxury, but instead a wellbeing tool for all of us.”

Class - Creativity as Medicine: a mindful art workshop 

We talk about exercise. We talk about diet. We rarely talk about creativity — and yet the research tells us we should be prescribing it for ourselves with the same seriousness.

This workshop begins with a short, honest account of how mindful art became part of my own recovery after brain surgery — and the surprising ripple effects it had on fatigue, anxiety, focus, and self-worth. Not because I was artistic. But because I finally gave my nervous system true rest.  You'll leave understanding why repetitive, absorbing creative practice isn't a luxury or a hobby — it's a genuine wellbeing tool. One that quietens the overactive mind, lowers cortisol, and creates the kind of deep rest that most of us rarely stumble into.

Then we'll experience it directly.  Using watercolour backgrounds I'll share simple doodling techniques, you'll move through a series of calming, repetitive marks — no experience needed, no right or wrong, no performance required. Think of it as yoga for the brain: the same principle of breath, rhythm and focused attention, expressed through your hands rather than your body.  You'll leave with techniques you can use anywhere — at home, at your desk, or on any day when life starts to feel like too much.

Time: 10.30am

Duration: 45 minutes

Location: TBC

You can book a space in Emma’s Mindful art class at check out in the “Add-ons” section.