Art Therapy

Therapy is like an effective deep tissue massage. It gets down into the crevices of the problem. It loosens the knots that cause aches and make your movements uncomfortable and stiff. Except, therapy does this for our minds and souls.

Take note, that I didn't say, therapist. Many therapists use practices and methods that may or may not be effective for their client, and I am aware that some people have had negative experiences with a therapist. 

However, therapy in essence is effective and ranges in methods. Art is one of my favorites; specifically writing and painting. Before I get into those art forms as therapeutic, I do want to take note that prayer and meditation is a form of therapy as well (to be discussed in a later post).

Before I knew the word therapy or understood what trauma and healing was I was writing. I started at the age of 10. I wanted to release what was in my mind so I journaled and created short stories. Every time, I felt overwhelmed, angry, sad, or numb I would write and create. Short stories evolved into poetry which evolved into blogging and writing a full-blown novel. I've noticed that whenever I feel overwhelmed I navigate towards creating. Not to divert but to process. 2018, I ran across an abstract painting video, and for the past 3 years I've been honing in on the painting.

As you know, all colors have meaning and evoke thought and emotion. When I paint, I use colors to tell a story. I turn on music that fits my emotional and spiritual space. EVERYTHING HAS A PURPOSE. Painting and writing help me to navigate through my thoughts and ideas.

Creating creates the space for me to confront and reflect.

Even the more, creating helps to refine patience, kindness, self-esteem, self-concept, & the expression of Love. I don't paint or create just for the heck of it. I have an end goal in mind that I plan on achieving. Changing your approach to creating can produce a different outcome in your well-being.

Steps To Curative Wellness:

1. Choose a medium (painting, writing, drawing, pottery, etc)

2. Develop your end goal.

3. Turn on music that fits your emotional/spiritual space.

4. CREATE & REFLECT

5. Be consistent