Art as Therapy

The conversation around art, dance, and music, has always been one of self-expression. Connecting with one's identity is an important element to holistic health, as it can provide methods for emotional and spiritual healing. So, how can we use art as therapy, and what are it's benefits?

What is art therapy?

Creating, viewing, and discussing art allows for individuals to cope with emotional conflicts and allows one to increase self-awareness. Additionally, it provides an outlet to communicate and express unspoken and unconscious concerns.

Art therapists use pictures, art supplies, visual symbols, and understanding behavior in order to help patients address their feelings. Art therapy can occur in an individual or group setting, and can consist of either creating or viewing artwork and expressing one's feelings in regards to these methods.

How does it work?

Creating art with an art therapist can help an individual bring out painful thoughts, emotions, or memories without the pressure of discussing these difficult topics. While one may be nervous to talk about traumatic or painful experiences, art therapy allows individuals to illustrate these thoughts in order to expose the concerns of the unconscious mind. In this way, art can be used as a tool for an individual to understand their own feelings and find outlets to release their trauma.

Okay, what now?

Knowing that art can be used as a clinical tool for unraveling trauma, pain, and other emotions, one can keep this in mind while implementing art in their day-to-day life. For example, say you are grappling with some difficult emotions, but are not quite sure how to express or talk about your feelings. This is a great opportunity to pull out a sketchbook and draw!

You don't necessarily need to have an end goal, or make something beautiful. Just apply yourself, and let your creation flow freely. Perhaps when you take a step back and look at what you've created, you can get a better understanding of your feelings!

Holistic Healing offers a free art program called 'Art as Healing,' which you can find on our programs page. This course shows you some basic methods of creation, but also how to utilize art to foster community and connect with ancestry. If you're having trouble figuring out when to start, this program can help you begin your journey healing through art!

What are some of your favorite mediums of art? What are some art practices of your culture and ancestors? Does art help you emote?

Tell us some of your thoughts! Let's foster a community discussion in the comments!