Let’s be honest for a second: when was the last time you actually relaxed? And no, scrolling through TikTok for three hours until your thumb cramps doesn’t count. We’re talking about that deep, soul-level quiet where the mental to-do list finally shuts up and you remember what it feels like to just… be.
If you’re struggling to find that “off” switch, don’t worry, we’ve found it for you. And it involves a yoga mat, a canvas, and a whole lot of good vibes.
Here at Paint Chill Co, we’re all about helping you hit pause. But this time, we’re taking things up a notch. We’ve teamed up with the incredible Cat from Kula Spirit Yoga to bring you something truly special. Mark your calendars for May 10th, because we’re heading to the Coastguard Studio in Southsea for a day of pure, unadulterated bliss: Paint ‘n’ Yoga.
Whether you’re searching for ‘painting events near me’ or looking for the ultimate ‘sip and paint Portsmouth’ experience with a mindful twist, this is the one you don’t want to miss.
THE COLLABORATION YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED
So, what happens when you mix a yoga guru with a professional artist? Aside from a lot of laughter and potentially some paint on a yoga mat (don’t worry, we’re careful!), you get a holistic reset for your brain.
Jessa (that’s me!) and Cat have been chatting about this for a while. We realised that the “flow state” people reach when they’re painting is remarkably similar to the mindfulness achieved on a yoga mat. Both practices are designed to ground you, quiet the noise, and let your inner creative out to play.
Cat brings the zen with her expert knowledge of movement and breath, while I bring the “chill” with our signature Paint Chill Co approach to art. Together, we’ve designed a session that moves from physical release into creative expression. It’s basically a spa day for your brain, but you get to take a painting home at the end.
FIRST, WE STRETCH: THE KULA SPIRIT EXPERIENCE
We start the session with Cat leading a gentle yoga flow. Now, before you panic, no, you do not need to be able to touch your toes. You don’t even need to know your “downward dog” from your “cobra.” This session is built for absolute beginners and seasoned yogis alike.
The goal isn’t to get into the most “Instagrammable” pose; it’s about releasing the physical tension we carry in our bodies. You know that tightness in your shoulders from sitting at a desk? Or that clench in your jaw when you’re stressed? Cat is an expert at helping you let that go.
We’ll focus on gentle movements to open up the hips and spine, combined with pranayama (that’s fancy talk for breath work). Deep breathing activates your body’s relaxation response, acting as a bridge between the chaos of the outside world and the creative sanctuary we’re building. By the time you step off the mat, your body will feel light, your mind will be clear, and you’ll be in the perfect headspace to pick up a brush.
THEN, WE PAINT: THE PAINT CHILL CO WAY
Once we’ve stretched out the stress, it’s time to dive into the colour. If you’ve been to our ‘paint and sip Portsmouth’ events before, you know we’re all about the process, not just the finished product. But for this event, we’re leaning even further into the mindful side of art.
Painting isn’t just about making something pretty; it’s a powerful tool for relaxation. Research shows that the repetitive motions of brushstrokes can actually mimic the effects of meditation. As you focus on the texture of the acrylics and the way the colours blend on the canvas, your brain enters a “flow state.” This is that magical zone where time seems to disappear and your focus is 100% on the present moment.
And don’t worry if the last thing you painted was a potato person in primary school. We provide step-by-step guidance. I’ll be right there with you, showing you exactly how to layer your colours and create a piece you’ll actually want to hang on your wall. There’s no pressure, no judgement, and absolutely no “wrong” way to do it.
THE SCIENCE OF WHY IT WORKS (THE NERDY BIT)
We promise we won’t turn this into a biology lecture, but the science behind why Paint ‘n’ Yoga feels so good is actually pretty cool.
When you combine physical movement with creative activity, you’re hitting the “happiness jackpot” in your brain:
- Lowering Cortisol: Both yoga and painting have been scientifically proven to lower cortisol levels (that’s the nasty stress hormone). By the end of the day, your nervous system will be thanking you.
- Boosting Dopamine: Completing a painting and engaging in rhythmic movement releases dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter. It’s a natural mood booster that lasts long after the session ends.
- Brain Plasticity: Trying something new: like a specific yoga pose or a new painting technique: helps keep your brain sharp and flexible.
- Emotional Processing: Sometimes, words aren’t enough. Painting gives you a safe outlet to process emotions and turn them into something tangible and beautiful.
WHY COASTGUARD STUDIO, SOUTHSEA?
We couldn’t think of a better place to host this event than the Coastguard Studio in Southsea. It’s one of our favourite spots in Portsmouth: it has that raw, creative energy that just makes you want to pick up a paintbrush the moment you walk in.
Located just a stone’s throw from the sea, it’s the perfect setting for a day of relaxation. There’s something about being near the coast that adds an extra layer of calm to the whole experience. Plus, Southsea has some of the best coffee and brunch spots in the city if you want to make a full day of it!
NO EXPERIENCE? NO PROBLEM!
We hear it all the time: “I’m not flexible enough for yoga” or “I can’t even draw a stickman.”
Stop right there! This event is specifically designed for people who feel that way. We aren’t training for the Olympics, and we aren’t auditioning for the Royal Academy of Arts. We are here to have fun, relax, and try something new.
Everything you need is provided. We’ve got the mats (though feel free to bring your own if you have a lucky one!), the canvases, the paints, the brushes, and the aprons. All you need to bring is yourself and a pair of comfy clothes you can move in.
THE DETAILS (AND THAT JUICY EARLY BIRD DEAL)
Ready to join us? Here’s the lowdown:
- When: Sunday, May 10th, 2026
- Where: Coastguard Studio, Southsea, Portsmouth
- Who: Cat (Kula Spirit Yoga) & Jessa (Paint Chill Co)
- What: A perfect blend of yoga and mindful painting
The Early Bird Catches the… Discount?
Standard tickets are usually more, but if you book your spot before April 5th, you can snag an Early Bird ticket for just £49.99.
Given how popular our ‘sip and paint Portsmouth’ sessions are, and how unique this collaboration is, we expect spots to fill up fast. Think of it as an investment in your mental health: and let’s be honest, it’s cheaper than a therapy session and much more colourful.
FINAL THOUGHTS: GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO UNWIND
We spend so much of our lives looking after everyone else, meeting deadlines, and worrying about the future. This event is your permission slip to stop. To breathe. To get paint on your fingers. To laugh at your wobbly balance.
Whether you’re coming solo to find some peace or bringing a group of friends for a different kind of Sunday social, we can’t wait to welcome you. Let’s make May 10th the day you finally learned the art of… actually relaxing.
Ready to book? [Head over to our events page here] and grab that early bird price before April 5th!
See you on the mat (and at the easel)!
: Jessa & The Paint Chill Co Team