One of the best things I ever did during stressful times was take out a blank canvas and paint whatever I was feeling. Though I am no art history scholar, I believe this was the idea behind the works of Expressionists artists such as Edvard Munch and played a bit part in the philosophy behind Vasily Kandinsky's paintings (my favorite artist of all time). My little rendition is pictured above. See, obviously I don't have very much technique, which means anyone can do this. And feel good about it!

Some graduate programs exist in the U.S., such as Pratt in NY, where students are taught art (and dance/movment) therapy skills. They in turn, can bring these techniques to different settings, helping people in geriatric homes, special ed programs, eating disorder clinics, etc. to express themselves in a way that is personally healing and fulfilling.

So who said abstract had to be weird? It's theurapeutic and good for you and for the world. So if you're feeling blue, paint it.

Note: If you have a clean table to use and don't mind it getting a little dirty, finger painting with chocolate pudding makes a great, tasty alternative.