Wellness Wednesday - Art Therapy
In this new series here on the BAG blog, we're exploring some uses of art that can be incorporated into daily life to help with mental well-being.
What is art therapy? Art therapy is a type of therapeutic technique rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being.
More Americans than ever before are stressed, depressed and anxiety-ridden, and many are unable to get the help they need, a new study suggests. How can we, strengthen our community; while sharing our love of Art? Our beliefs and values are gained through stories we encounter. It is time to start telling stories that will promote wellness, and strengthen our community. When something so simple, has the capacity to become so meaningful in an individual’s life; it is a gift that should be passed on. ‘Working with art can give a person a sense of mastery, not just with an art material, but more so in honing coping skills to enhance one’s quality of life. Think of someone you may know that could benefit from art therapy; share this coping technique, it will be a beneficial and valuable resource to pass along.
ACTIVITY: Lighthouse
Art activities like the Lighthouse are good for children and adults. For those who feel lost, overwhelmed, or isolated; expressing it and visualizing hope on the shore, is a therapeutic and beautiful way of identifying needs, feeling hope for the future, or realizing where they are on a specific journey.
Visualize being lost at sea on a stormy night in a tiny boat.
There is a small glimmer of light leading to land. If you row hard, you know you can make it. Warm food, dry clothes, and rest will be waiting at shore.
Draw, color, or paint a lighthouse as a source of guidance. It can look however you picture it in your mind's eye. Depict yourself in relation to the lighthouse somewhere in the image. How far away is it? How small or large is it for you? Add words to represent sources of guidance in your life, i.e. faith, family, hope. (Lighthouse, n.d.)
Family, Home, Hope, Fight
What are some of the words you used to represent the sources of guidance in your life?
Place your lighthouse in a place that may see it regularly and be reminded of all the good things that keep you on course. Maybe the inside of a closet door, as a bookmark or a digital version as wallpaper on your phone.
