Art therapy is all about using creative expression to help individuals explore and understand their emotions, thoughts and behaviours. It can significantly benefit mental and emotional health and offers a way to process feelings and experiences that might be difficult to express through words alone.
The beauty of art therapy lies in its accessibility—you don’t need to be an artist to experience its benefits. There are more than 2,500 art therapists in the UK but the cost of therapy may put sessions out of your budget. Luckily, there are techniques you can learn that are simple, enjoyable and open to everyone, regardless of skill level.
Setting Up Your Space
Creating a calming and comfortable environment is essential when practising art therapy at home. Begin by choosing a quiet space where you feel relaxed and free from distractions, whether this is a corner of a room, a table by a window, or even a cosy spot on the floor.
You don’t need expensive supplies to get started. Common items such as brushes, pens, paints, art paper and cards can all be used effectively in therapy and are easily sourced. But remember, the focus should be on the process, not the end result. Allow yourself the freedom to explore and experiment without worrying about creating a ‘perfect’ piece of art.
Techniques
Free Drawing or Painting:
Free drawing and painting involves letting your hand move across the paper without any specific goal or plan in mind. The idea is to allow spontaneous expression, giving your mind the freedom to explore thoughts and emotions as they arise.
Mandala Creation:
Drawing or colouring mandalas can help focus the mind and promote relaxation. They have been used for centuries in various cultures as a meditative tool. Creating your own helps to centre your thoughts and reduce stress.
Collage Making:
Using materials like magazines, newspapers or fabric, you can create a collage that represents your emotions or experiences. The process of selecting and arranging images and words can provide insight into your subconscious mind.
Clay or Playdough Sculpting:
Working with clay or playdough is a hands-on technique that is soothing and grounding. These materials allow you to connect with your senses, making it easier to stay present in the moment.
Integrating Art Therapy into Daily Life
To fully benefit from art therapy, make it a regular part of your self-care routine. Keeping an art journal where you can draw or write about your experiences can be a powerful way to track your emotional journey.
Set aside a few minutes each day or week for creative expression and treat this time as a sacred space for yourself.
