The Benefits of Pottery

Pottery is an ancient art form that dates back as early as 5000 B.C. In the pottery process, clay is prepared for forming by kneading, which is done by a potter’s hand or using machinery. This allows the clay to become more malleable and gives it texture. Coarse additives such as sand and grog (fired clay that has been finely ground) can be worked into the clay to produce a desired texture and decrease shrinkage during drying and firing. During this phase the potter can also add colorants to the glaze.

When creating pottery, the potter’s mind is completely focused on what he or she is doing. This ability to fully focus on one thing helps improve a person’s attention span and allows them to develop more control over their actions. This will benefit them in a number of ways including increased motor skills and better self-control.

Pottery-making is a relaxing and challenging activity that can help foster emotional stability. The meditative state created by pottery work can allow people to release frustrations and worries, which can result in reduced cortisol levels and decreased physical symptoms of anxiety or stress. Elevated cortisol levels are a common symptom of numerous mental disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Clinical Depression, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. Even just 45 minutes of pottery-making can significantly reduce these levels and alleviate associated symptoms. When a pot is fired, it becomes permanently hardened through sintering, the fusing together of coarser particles within the clay body at their points of contact, and chemical and mineral changes due to the high temperatures of firing.