By Karen Hanlon
In the fast-paced world of healthcare, hospital professionals often focus solely on the physical well-being of their patients. While this is crucial, it is also important to recognize the impact of mental and emotional health on overall well-being. That’s where expressive, holistic practices such as art therapy come in.
What is expressive art therapy?
Expressive art therapy is a powerful tool that healthcare professionals can use to help their patients. Creating art is a unique way of expressing oneself that can promote healing and improve the lives of patients. When combined in the proper sequence of meditation, essential oils, positive affirmations, and journaling, art therapy can help individuals increase their self-awareness, cope with symptoms, and adapt to stressful and traumatic experiences. By incorporating expressive art therapy into their practice, healthcare professionals can provide patients with a valuable, non-verbal means of communication that helps them connect with themselves and others.
Breaking free
One of the benefits of expressive art therapy is that it helps patients reach a state of consciousness that breaks them free from the constant debilitating chatter of the mind. By entering into a state of flow and present-moment awareness, patients can relax their bodies and mind, which is especially important for those who are experiencing physical pain or other physical ailments.
Communicating nonverbally
Another benefit of the expressive arts is that they allow patients to communicate nonverbally, which can be especially important for patients who struggle to express themselves verbally. Creativity is a language all its own, and it enables humans to connect with one another on a nonverbal level. By creating art, patients can express their thoughts and emotions in a way that is unique to them, without the constraints of language.
A holistic approach to art therapy can also nurture a space that provides stability and a constant connection to our true selves. In a world that can often feel chaotic and unpredictable, these practices can provide patients with a sense of stability and control. Patients can explore their emotions and tap into the essence of their innermost soul, which can lead to increased happiness and well-being.
Benefiting the whole person
In summary, expressive art therapy is a powerful tool that healthcare professionals should be aware of and utilize as needed with their patients. The creative process involved in making art can promote healing, enhance lives, and provide patients with a way to communicate nonverbally. By recognizing the importance of mental and emotional health in overall well-being, healthcare professionals can provide holistic care that benefits the whole person.