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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s 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\u2019s when I paint something \u2013 whatever comes to mind first.<\/p>\n
I never took painting or drawing courses and don\u2019t possess any exceptional talent. That\u2019s not important when discussing art as a healing tool.<\/p>\n
We aren\u2019t discussing creating artworks for gallery exhibitions or selling them to connoisseurs for a hefty sum. No, that\u2019s not what we\u2019re talking about. We\u2019re talking about taking a canvas, a brush, or a pencil, closing our eyes, and allowing whatever is in our mind \u2013 creating our creativity and imagination \u2013 to be captured on that piece of paper or canvas.<\/p>\n
However, this concept of Art Therapy isn\u2019t new; much has been written about it. It\u2019s defined as utilizing artistic resources and elements to facilitate the expression and contemplation of emotions.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Subsequently, this helps us enhance our focus and creativity in other aspects of our lives, like work or interpersonal relationships.<\/p>\n
I\u2019m sharing some of my paintings with you. Generally, I work with acrylics, but I also enjoy using colored pencils and shading \u2013 a bit of everything.<\/p>\n
I\u2019m inviting you to explore art to express your emotions. You don\u2019t need much \u2013 start with a pencil and paper. Oh, and please, do share your creations with me.<\/p>\n