Art can be used as a medium to express yourself, mostly your thoughts and emotions. Therefore, it’s no surprise that it’s a form of therapy to help promote healing. This creative practice is growing in the mental health space, especially for individuals who experience difficulties expressing their emotions in words. Here, we breakdown what art therapy is, what some of the benefits of this practice are, and exercises you can try at home to creatively express your emotions.
What is Art Therapy?
According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy involves “active art-making, creative process, applied psychological theory, and human experience within a psychotherapeutic relationship.” Art therapy is generally facilitated by a professional therapist specialized in art. It is usually provided in many settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, community centers, and even mental health clinics.
It is important to note that you do not need any sort of background in art prior to receiving art therapy. Art therapists are here to guide you and help you best express your inner self. The types of art therapy can vary depending on each client’s goals, but some popular ones are drawing, painting, and making pottery.
Benefits of Art Therapy
There is a growing body of research to suggest that art therapy is helpful for all individuals to tap into their subconscious thought patterns, regardless of their conditions. While additional research is needed in the space to establish a clear understanding of how art therapy is beneficial, researchers have found that it helps individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. Here are some of the research-backed benefits of engaging in art therapy:
- Decreases stress and anxiety
- Improves aging-related issues
- Promotes healing from cancer
- Reduces family and relationship issues
- Boosts a positive emotional state
Art Therapy Exercises to Try
Art therapy has been researched to boost mood, lower stress, and improve one’s overall quality of life. If you’re interested in starting this, the first step is to contact an art therapist near you. Experts recommend the American Art Therapy Association’s directory to find a licensed art therapist in your area. Here are some art therapy exercises you can add to your routine to feel more relaxed and happy:
- Keep a journal. Visually express your emotions with a drawing. Keep all of your drawings in a designated journal so you can track them over time.
- Write inside a balloon. If you have any negative thoughts, write them down on a small piece of paper. Insert the piece of paper in a balloon filled with air. Then, tie your balloon and release it into the air, “watching” the negative thoughts blow away.
- Draw on a postcard. Surprise your future self with an act of self-love by drawing your favorite things on a postcard and storing it in an envelope. The next time you’re feeling down or low, open up the envelope and see your drawings.
- Color. There are now adult coloring books created for this exact purpose. Grab a set of markers or colored pencils, a quiet space, and tap into your inner child with this soothing activity
