When we think about good health, physical fitness often takes centre stage. But mental and emotional wellness are just as vital — especially for public officers who often balance tight deadlines and the demands of serving the community.
In the same spirit, CSC sees wellness as more than just workouts.. Through art-based workshops such as Pastel Nagomi Art – Happy National Day and Zentangle Mindful Art 2025, members find space to unwind, reflect and reconnect. By focusing on creativity, these sessions encourage clarity, calm and self-awareness — qualities that build resilience and make everyday challenges easier to navigate.
Find peace at your fingertips with Pastel Nagomi Art
Created in 2003 by Hosoya Norikatsu, founder of the Japan Pastel Hope Art Association, Pastel Nagomi Art uses soft pastel sticks gently smudged with your fingers to form pictures — no brushes or tools required. More than an artistic pursuit, it is a therapeutic practice designed to help participants achieve inner harmony (“nagomi”, in Japanese) within each session.
You don’t need any artistic background to try it. The process is simple, meditative and free of pressure, usually centred on creating calming images like sunsets, mandalas or landscapes — though you’re free to draw whatever inspires you. At the end, you’ll leave not only with a finished artwork but also a renewed sense of calm.
“This medium teaches you to slow down and enjoy the process, rather than fixating on the final product. There’s no such thing as a mistake in this kind of art,” shares Ms Gina Lim, a Pastel Nagomi Art instructor.
To add inspiration, CSC’s online Pastel Nagomi workshops are themed around festive occasions. Picture vibrant Little India street scenes or peacock feathers in the upcoming Pastel Nagomi Art Workshop – Deepavali on 11 October 2025, serene seaside views in Pastel Nagomi Art – Vacation Theme (Online) on 15 November 2025, or Yuletide decorations and pristine snowflakes at the Pastel Nagomi Art – Merry Christmas workshop on 13 December 2025.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What to expect at a CSC virtual art workshop
New to online CSC workshops? Here are a few simple tips to make the most of your creative session at home:
• Register early and look out for the confirmation email (check your spam folder if it doesn’t appear).
• Log in to Zoom about 15 minutes before class so you can settle in without rushing.
• Don’t worry if you’re a beginner — instructors will guide you step by step, just like in a physical studio.
• Think of it as a healthy mental escape from doom-scrolling — a chance to unwind, recharge and let your creativity flow after a long week.
• Remember, there’s no need to share or compare. Focus on enjoying the process rather than perfection.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Discover mindfulness in motion with Zentangle
Though its name may sound like a board game, Zentangle is actually a form of structured doodling created by finance analyst Rick Roberts and artist Maria Thomas. The pair discovered that drawing intricate patterns for hand-lettered inscriptions brought them into a timeless, immersive flow state — the same state of calm that meditation aims to achieve. Wanting others to benefit, they developed a method to make this experience accessible to anyone, no matter their artistic ability.
Studies have shown that the act of drawing or colouring repetitive patterns eases anxiety and tension, while also sharpening fine motor skills and boosting concentration — making Zentangle a simple yet effective way to relax and stay present.
“Zentangle is where creativity meets calm,” says Ms Gina Lim. “You don’t need talent – you just need time.”
To pick up the basics, join the Zentangle Mindful Art 2025 – Virtual, happening on 27 September, 25 October, 29 November and 27 December 2025, from 11am to 12pm. With each session, you’ll find yourself doodling your way to greater focus, balance and peace of mind.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
More wellness workshops and talks at CSC
Art is just one way CSC supports your well-being. You’ll also find a wide range of workshops and talks designed to help you recharge, reflect and grow.
Insight Sessions with Morning Star Community Services: Expert-led Zoom discussions on parenting, behaviour, emotional well-being and navigating life’s big transitions, funded by the Ministry of Social and Family Development.
• 25 September 2025, 2pm to 3pm: Dealing with Exam Stress — strategies for managing fears and expectations during exam season
• 16 October 2025, 2pm to 3pm: A Whole New World — guidance for parents supporting children moving from primary to secondary school
Upcoming scent painting workshop : This sensory journey uses fragrance to spark creativity, ease stress and promote relaxation. Participants also take home their own artwork and personalised aroma blend.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Discover mindful art at CSC. Join an upcoming Pastel Nagomi or Zentangle workshop and take the first step toward a calmer, more balanced you. Check out the activity schedules here.