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If you're an artist, you will be all too familiar with the crooked neck, muscle pain, and aching back that comes with spending so much of your time absorbed in your work while you’re hunched over your desk or standing too long in one position at your easel. It’s not uncommon for artists to experience aches and pains in pursuit of their creative works, but you know what? Just because it’s common doesn’t mean it's inevitable, and you can stop hurting for once. Here’s how:
1. Fix Your Setup (Your Spine Will Thank You)
Most creative pain starts with one word: ergonomics. Whether you’re painting on the floor, sculpting for hours, or editing on your laptop from bed (we see you), your body needs a setup that doesn’t resemble a yoga pretzel.
Try this: make sure your screen or canvas is at eye level, your elbows are bent at roughly 90°, and your back has actual support. If your chair feels like medieval torture, swap it out. Even a small footrest or adjustable easel can save your spine from screaming.
2. Move Like You Mean It
Artistic flow is wonderful, until you realize you haven’t moved in three hours. Every 45 minutes or so, stand up, stretch, or do a quick “studio dance.” Roll your shoulders, shake your wrists, rotate your neck. Not only does this reduce stiffness, but it also gives your brain a burst of oxygen, and yes, creativity loves that.
Bonus: Set a fun timer that reminds you to move. Mine sounds like a dramatic movie trailer horn. It works.
3. Heat, Cold & Magic Creams
Sometimes muscles just need a little TLC. Heat pads can melt away tension, while ice packs help tame inflammation after those extra-long sessions. And for those deep, nagging aches that won’t quit, a pain relief cream with Delta 9, CBD & CBG might be worth exploring. It’s one of those modern options that combines cannabinoids known for soothing soreness and easing muscle recovery - perfect for tired hands, backs, and shoulders. (Just make sure it’s from a reputable source and follow the instructions like the responsible adult you are.)
4. Hydrate & Nourish (Yes, Really)
Pain and fatigue can sneak up faster if you’re running on fumes, or, more accurately, on caffeine and vibes. Keep a water bottle nearby and actually drink from it. Eat something that isn’t paint-smudged or covered in graphite. Foods rich in omega-3s, magnesium, and antioxidants can help your muscles recover faster and reduce inflammation all while giving your brain fuel for that next creative breakthrough.
5. Stretch Like an Artist (Not a Gym Bro)
Artists need flexibility both physically and mentally. So, you really should try some wrist and forearm stretches, gentle yoga poses like cat-cow or child’s pose, and some mindful breathing while you do them. The goal isn’t to “work out”; it’s to keep your joints mobile and happy.
6. Make Recovery Part of the Process
You wouldn’t rush through drying paint, so don’t rush your recovery. Schedule breaks, massage your hands, use that pain relief cream, and take rest days. Your art deserves your best self, not your most exhausted one.
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7th & Palm was created to support giving away more time and resources to help others. Giving back 1% of our time, 1% of our profits, and 1% of our products at a bare minimum to the local and global community, 7th & Palm remains committed to a 1/1/1 giving pledge. YOU can be a part of that by shopping small and voting with your dollar! All artwork, stationery and greeting cards, prints, and home goods are created by artist Andrea Smith. |