In today’s fast-paced life, we all face stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion. This can occur due to a demanding world, expectations, and pressure to be successful.
According to the WHO, India’s mental health burden is 2443 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per one lakh population.
After being aware of such conditions, taking necessary preventive measures is a must. Along with professional therapy and support, another proven method for emotional well-being is Art therapy.
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is not just about drawing and painting.
Art therapy refers to various treatments, such as theatre therapy, dance movement psychotherapy, body psychotherapy, music therapy, and drawing, painting, and craft therapy.
How does art therapy work?
There is a biological connection between art and the brain; that’s why it becomes effective and efficient.
According to the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine, studies have proven that art can help in the release of increased serotonin and blood flow to the brain.
this can help in every age people, starting from children adapting to new world around them to elderly people.
What are the benefits of art therapy?
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
- Improves symptoms of stress and depression
- Stimulate cognitive abilities (brain function)
- Improve self-esteem and awareness
- Encourage emotional expression
- Improve the behaviour of an autistic child
How to incorporate art therapy in daily life?
The first step is to choose your interests. Find the art type that makes you feel good.
Set a goal of doing these activities for 15-20 min a day. This will give you a kind of completion task for the day.
Try to avoid other thoughts during this time and just feel yourself during this time. And you will feel calm and relieved from stress and overthinking.
In chronic and severe conditions, seek help from professionals first.
For me, drawing and painting works best. Share how your kind of art helps you to cope in these situations.
MBH/PS