5 Ways To Protect Your Health as an Artist

While working as an artist is regarded by many as a sort of romantic profession, many an artist is aware of the sleepless nights, messy studio spaces, and lean years spent eating the cheapest noodles known to man. Working as a full-time artist may be your dream, but it also takes a lot of work, dedication, and a commitment to personal health. If you want to thrive as an artist, here are some ways you should be taking care of yourself.

1. Stick To Your Sleep Schedule

The sleep-deprived artist is one of many tropes, but it is one few professionals can actually afford. When you lose sleep, your brain doesn't function as well as it should, and you could be missing out on bursts of intense inspiration. If you're working on a piece that you can't get quite right, a lack of sleep could be preventing you from seeing potential solutions. This lack of energy can also make it difficult to complete administration tasks like responding to emails or shipping products to your customers, which can have a negative impact on your business over time. When you get enough sleep, the effects show up in every area of your life.

2. Eat Well

Healthy diet is essential to operating at peak capacity. As an artist, it's likely that you are always thinking of new projects and searching for new sources of inspiration. It is a profession that often requires both mental and physical energy to do well. A busy schedule can make it difficult to get all the nutrients you need, so you may want to look into supplementing your diet. One way to do this is to look up Le-Vel Thrive reviews and research which products would benefit your lifestyle. Smoothies and protein bars are great ways to quickly sneak in meals if you have to work late.

3. Clean Your Workspace

Cleaning your workspace isn't just essential for functioning in your daily schedule, but it is also crucial for safety reasons. Depending on the supplies you work with, letting messes go unattended could actually be hazardous for your health. Cataloging your tools and materials can help with this. Keep track of your resins and paints, organize your sewing needles, and keep sculpting tools or blades where no one will accidentally step on them or brush against them as they move through your space. Some clutter is indicative of a creative mind, but cleaning your physical clutter can help clean your mental clutter as well. Next time you're feeling blocked, tidy your desk, let your subconscious get to work, and then try again.

4. Respect Your Boundaries

Artists manage to get a stunning amount of disrespect when it comes to being paid for their work. Alas, are you even a real artist if someone hasn't offered to pay you in exposure? While it may be tempting to lower your prices for more business, this means you will have to take on more work to meet your needs. These clients will expect more work at the same price, which is not sustainable for you in the long run. To protect your mental health, charge your worth and ditch difficult clients.

5. Move Around

Many artists sit or stand for long periods of time, and both can be detrimental to your health. Take time to stretch and walk around in regular intervals. Use this time to grab a snack and stay hydrated. The combination will help you stay focused and energized throughout the day. Reserve some time for yoga and meditation to re-center after a creative burst. It's also a good idea to go to a doctor regularly, especially if you notice any issues. Using your wrists and shoulders a lot can cause stress on your joints and tendons that eventually cause injuries, and the sooner you see an expert, the more mobility you can preserve.

Working as an artist is a dream for many, but it is also important to keep the dream alive by taking care of yourself. Follow these tips to build a lifestyle that nurtures both your health and your creativity.