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Art / Creative expression
Introduction
Art therapy is a creative method of expression used as a therapeutic technique to express and reduce the intensity of emotions as well as discover symbolic meanings in the unconscious. As of this writing, there is no set definition of "Art therapy" but it involves creativity, reconciling emotional conflicts, fostering self-awareness, and personal growth. It has been used as a method for abused children to communicate things they cannot say; for elderly people to regain a sense of beauty or expression; and for military veterans and other trauma survivors.
What the research does not yet say is what the Lab knows: creative expression is vital to being a fully integrated and well-adjusted human being. The power of creativity is a vital force that everyone uses to forge their identities, life narratives and find meaning and solace in the chaos of life. Human consciousness uses creative forces to create, invent, innovate, build, navigate, discover, cope, heal and over-come pain all the time.
It is the capacity of creative visualization that enables our greatest inventors and innovators to design and build our world. Put this vital human force to work for you - create your own new calmer reality.
Key idea
If you can visualize it first, it is then easier to heal or invent or build it - whatever your goal is.
Art therapy for relaxation and healing
Suggested activities
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images of your life that give you anxiety. Use any imagery or symbols that come to you naturally as you do it.
Whether the activity is purely for fun or to focus on a goal, use the creative energy to direct yourself to achieving your life objectives.
You are not trying to make a work of art - the purpose is expression and discovery. It does not have to be pretty or conform to any standard or artistic style.
Art therapy: Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your goals.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent the best time of your life.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent the worst time of your life.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your thinking style.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your family.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your main relationships- past and present.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your health and body image.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your feelings about the outside world.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images that represent your perception of the world.
Draw, paint, sculpt or otherwise devise images of the narrative of your life. Who's the hero, villain, sidekick? What are you? Who are you? Use any image that comes to you.
Just be free and let yourself express. Follow the links below for research and studies on the benefits of creative expression.