Regardless of whether you love to create pieces of artwork or simply enjoy observing the artwork made by others, one thing is for sure: art is inspiring, relaxing, and amazing for your mental health. Art therapy is gaining momentum in the world and can provide relief to anyone experiencing stress. At times where tensions are running high for most of us, learn how you can incorporate creativity and expression through artwork into your life to improve your wellbeing.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is where people create artwork to help bring clarity and improve psychological wellbeing. There are specialised art therapists who offer therapeutic advice to clients while working creatively on artistic projects. However, even mindfully painting, sketching, or sculpting at home can bring some relief both mentally and emotionally.
This is no new concept. Art therapy has been a formal treatment since the 1940s, although expression through art had been taking place hundreds of years before. Doctors saw the correlation between creativity and good mental health and art therapy is now prescribed to patients across the globe who are dealing with emotional trauma.
How does art improve mental wellbeing?
Art therapy is not about how talented you are at creating a beautiful piece of artwork. Instead, it is about artistic expression and self-exploration. It helps to develop insight into feelings that are causing emotional trauma. Through creation, you can learn a lot about how you are feeling and gain a new and beneficial perspective on your thoughts and behaviours. The act of slowing down and focusing on producing a piece of artwork also helps calm the minds of people living hectic, stressful, and overwhelming lives.
Who is art therapy for?
Art therapy is for everybody and can effectively lift the mood of individuals of all ages and genders. If you are feeling emotionally imbalanced and in the need of clarity and relaxation, art therapy is for you.
If you have a diagnosed psychological disorder, speak to your doctor and see whether art therapy could be an effective part of your treatment. You will able be able to find art therapy classes at local art studios, wellness centres, and colleges. These sessions differ from regular art classes as they have a different end goal: whereas regular art classes focus on improving your artistic technique, art therapy focuses on self-expression and emotional release.
If the stresses of everyday life are getting on top of you, take a moment to pick up a creative hobby. See how slowing down and working on expressing your inner self can lead to a healthier and happier you.
