Craft your calm: Play dough stress relief
Discover homemade scented playdough for hands-on stress relief and sensory relaxation.
Immerse yourself in the soothing process of creating homemade scented playdough. This easy, fun activity offers a unique way to relieve stress through tactile stimulation and aromatherapy. Perfect for adults seeking a creative escape from the hustle and bustle.
What you will need
- 2 cups of flour
- 1/2 cup of salt
- 2 tablespoons of cream of tartar
- 1.5 cups of boiling water
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Essential oils (lavender or rosemary for relaxation)
- Food colouring (optional)
- An airtight container for storage
How to do the activity
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and cream of tartar.
- Add the boiling water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Once cooled slightly, knead the dough until smooth.
- Make your play dough special by adding a few drops of your chosen essential oil and food colouring, if using, and
- knead again to distribute the scent and colour evenly.
- Store your scented play dough in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
How to make it your own
Personalise your play dough by experimenting with different essential oil scents based on your mood or stress level. Combine colours to create unique shades or add glitter for a sparkly effect. Consider creating themed play dough batches for holidays or as mood boosters, infusing each with scents and colours that reflect the season or your current feelings.
Why this activity works
Kneading play dough is a physical activity that helps release tension in your hands and arms, a common area where stress is held. The repetitive motion and focus on the task can act as a form of mindfulness, redirecting your thoughts away from stressors and anchoring you in the present moment. The added element of scent plays a significant role in stress relief; aromatherapy is known for its ability to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and enhance mood. Essential oils like lavender and rosemary are particularly effective for relaxation, making them perfect additions to your play dough.
This activity offers a dual approach to stress relief, combining the benefits of creative expression with the therapeutic properties of essential oils. Engaging in such a simple yet fulfilling task can significantly lower stress levels, promote a sense of accomplishment, and boost overall well-being. It's a testament to how returning to basic, hands-on activities can provide a powerful counterbalance to the digital overload of modern life.
Share the benefits with others
Explore the calming power of creativity with our homemade scented play dough activity and discover more ways to enhance your emotional fitness and well-being. Check out our regularly updated collection of stress management activities designed to support your journey towards a more balanced and joyful life.