Art as therapy and healing
Art is often seen as a form of self-expression and creativity. However, it can also be used for healing and therapeutic purposes. In the last couple of months, I have been doing a lot of art, and I have realized that some pieces are pure therapy. In this blog post, I will discuss the therapeutic benefits of art and how it can help ones healing journey.
First, let me tell you how I understood the difference between my therapeutic art making and my other art making. A few weeks back, I painted about 12 acrylic paintings on canvas and I was in such a flow state. While looking at them now, I know it's not necessarily the kind of art I wanna make but that doesn't matter at all! Amongst other things in my personal life, I painted my way through the grief after the passing of my grandmother and it helped me tremendously. I was totally present and mindful in the moment and the outcome didn't matter.
I know there’s “proper” art therapy with educated coaches that can be used to help individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health issues. I’m sure that can be very helpful but it may not be accessible to everyone. I’ve had some kind of fixed thought that art as therapy has to be putting ones traumas on the canvas, quite literally. Or creating expressive abstract pieces to convey ones emotional state. Lately I’ve realized that this is not the case at all. Art can be a nonverbal way of expressing thoughts and emotions that may be difficult to put into words. But it can be expressed with whatever you feel like creating.
Art as therapy is not about creating beautiful art. It is about the process of creating, exploring emotions, and gaining insights into oneself. Through art, one can express their feelings, thoughts, and experiences in whatever form that comes naturally.
Creating art can also be a form of healing. It allows one to process things in a nonverbal way. It can be used to express grief, loss, and trauma. Art can also be used to celebrate life, joy, and hope. It can provide a sense of relaxation and release. When creating art, you can focus on the present moment and let go of worries and stress.
Art can be a powerful tool for therapy, healing, and self-care. If you are struggling with mental health issues, consider exploring art for mindfulness and healing.
I hope it will help you <3