Starting the new year by trying something new by doing something old. What?

There’s something about a new year that makes me feel like I should take up cold-water swimming, learn a language or suddenly become the sort of person who enjoys 6am yoga. And while I love trying new things, as you'll know if you're a regular reader, I've kicked off 2026 by doing something very old.

It started innocently enough. After last month’s upcycling project (which I’m still super proud of), I seem to have caught the painting bug. Painting a picture frame was quickly followed by giving the kitchen a refresh – because apparently 'dog mud splatter chic' is no longer on trend for 2026. Who knew?

Somewhere between scrubbing walls and choosing paint samples with names like “Soft Linen Whisper,” I remembered something: I used to love art.

Back in the day, I even managed an A* in A-level art (yes, I will be dining out on that forever). And yet, for the past 30 years, my fine art paint brushes have been quietly gathering dust while I've been doing sensible adult things like… emails.

So when a kit from DIY Art Club landed on my doorstep, it felt like a little nudge from the universe. Or at least from the algorithm.

Back to brushes

Opening the box was oddly exciting, like being transported back to the art room, minus the questionable lino floors and faint smell of PVA glue.

Painting is a completely different experience when you’re no longer being graded. No pressure, no expectations, no teacher gently suggesting my interpretation of a still life might be… ambitious.

Just paint.

And for the first time in a long time, I properly switched off.

The unexpected mental health boost

What I hadn’t fully appreciated is just how good painting is for your brain.

According to the American Psychological Association, creative activities like painting can significantly reduce stress, help process emotions, and even boost self-esteem. It encourages a kind of mindful focus – what people love to call a 'flow state' – where your brain gets a much-needed break from the mental to-do list.

And honestly? I felt it.

No emails. No doom-scrolling. No overthinking. Just me, a brush, and serious focus to keep the paint within the lines.

But here's the thing: Painting actually doesn’t demand perfection – it just asks you to show up. And there’s something quietly powerful in that.

If you fancy giving it a go…

If, like me, you’ve got a long-lost creative hobby lurking somewhere in your past, consider this your sign. You don’t even have to go it alone, why not try a local class. If you live near me in West Berkshire, there are some lovely local spots where you can ease yourself back in:

• The Ugly Duckling Pottery – perfect if you fancy getting hands-on (and slightly messy) with pottery painting in a relaxed, friendly setting.

• City Arts Newbury – offering a range of art courses if you’re feeling a bit more "I might actually take this seriously again.”

Sometimes the best way to try something new… is to remember what you loved all along.

Will I become a full-time artist? Unlikely. Will I keep painting? Absolutely.

Even if it’s just for an hour here and there, it’s become a small but mighty form of self-care – one that doesn’t involve a screen or a shopping basket.

So if you’re looking for a gentle reset this year, maybe don’t reinvent yourself entirely.

Maybe just pick up something you once loved… and see what happens.

And if your first attempt looks like abstract chaos, here's a tip I learned in my school years: just call it 'intentional'. It works every time!