Thirteen years ago, I discovered a potent tool in art, specifically in painting. Just like gardening, it helps me detach my mind from negative thoughts.
I can spend entire afternoons engrossed in my paintings, feeling that everything is correct, at least during that time. Even after a few hours of painting, my mood improves, and my thoughts seem more apparent.
It’s also a means for my unconscious to bring to light issues that have long been suppressed due to their painful nature. We all understand that suppressing emotions can affect our physical and mental health. Eventually, there comes a point when those thoughts and that sadness need to be released. That’s when I paint something – whatever comes to mind first.
I never took painting or drawing courses and don’t possess any exceptional talent. That’s not important when discussing art as a healing tool.
We aren’t discussing creating artworks for gallery exhibitions or selling them to connoisseurs for a hefty sum. No, that’s not what we’re talking about. We’re talking about taking a canvas, a brush, or a pencil, closing our eyes, and allowing whatever is in our mind – creating our creativity and imagination – to be captured on that piece of paper or canvas.
However, this concept of Art Therapy isn’t new; much has been written about it. It’s defined as utilizing artistic resources and elements to facilitate the expression and contemplation of emotions.
Art therapy is a type that relies on the creative art process to enhance our mental well-being. Expressing our emotions through art can aid in dealing with unresolved past conflicts, boost self-awareness, improve self-esteem and assertiveness, and alleviate anxiety and stress.
Subsequently, this helps us enhance our focus and creativity in other aspects of our lives, like work or interpersonal relationships.
I’m sharing some of my paintings with you. Generally, I work with acrylics, but I also enjoy using colored pencils and shading – a bit of everything.
I’m inviting you to explore art to express your emotions. You don’t need much – start with a pencil and paper. Oh, and please, do share your creations with me.
