Empowered youth art and mindfulness sessions start Jan. 20

Mental Health Alternatives Inc. invites preteens and teens to its empowered youth workshop series, in collaboration with Artpothecary DIY Art Center.

The engaging three-part series aims to provide young participants with creative tools to navigate stress, anxiety and overwhelm while fostering self-confidence and personal growth.

Blending art and mindfulness, sessions will meet from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, Jan. 20, Monday, Feb. 17, and Friday, March 14, at Artpothecary, 37401 Malloy St., Rehoboth Beach.

Participants will have opportunities to connect with peers, explore their creativity and learn valuable coping skills.

Creative Mindfulness Journals is the topic Jan. 20. Students will design personalized art journals, and learn about the importance of setting intentions and goals.

During Abstract Self-Portraits Feb. 17, participants will use art history and conceptual techniques to create portraits that reflect how they feel, not just what they see.

Paint & Grow Flower Pots is set for March 14. Attendees will learn acrylic pour painting techniques and discuss manifesting a life they desire, with participants taking home a painted flower pot, seeds and planting instructions.

The series was inspired by the challenges youth have faced following the COVID-19 pandemic, including increased isolation and anxiety. Founders Elizabeth Sanchez, a holistic life coach, Amy Casas, a mindfulness facilitator, and Diane Winiarczyk, a health coach, recognized the need for alternative approaches to help children cope. By integrating creativity with wellness practices, the workshops aim to provide lifelong tools for managing stress, staying grounded and building confidence.

Studies show that children who develop coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety are more confident, focused and capable of achieving their goals. One student shared how visualization techniques learned in a previous workshop helped him fall asleep during restless nights, while another utilized grounding tools to remain calm during a school lockdown.

For details and to register, go to mentalhealthalternatives.org.