Art as a subject is as fascinating as it is as a mode of
therapy. Art therapy is an upcoming sphere of therapy which in itself is
body-mind therapy. It involves the creation of something from scratch, which
will be influenced by colours, moods, and allows the flow of emotions.
There is considerable evidence that shows an improvement of
mood, fewer depression symptoms, help in experiencing feelings and emotions
more freely, a better quality of life, patience, etc. through art therapy. In
cancer patients as well, it has proved as an effective distraction from the
constant anxiety, pain and, sadness.
The creation of something from nothing, be it painting,
sketching, pottery, etc, helps to distract the individual and provide a sense
of contentment. It moreover, influences brain waves pattern and releases
certain substances in the brain. It also reduces stress, fear, and anxiety, and
provides a sense of freedom.
While volunteering at Snehagram, art was used as an
extracurricular activity while also incorporating basic psychological concepts
with it. For instance, they were taught how to make a mandala which is
basically a doodle where one can fill with colours as they want. Moreover, they
were initially taught art as a subject as well, to build their interest in it
and to provide a basis for Art Therapy. It is used as a model of skill
development in these children as well.
The children were very reactive to these practices. Every
week, they would draw new pieces of art and eagerly bring their artwork to
display them to the volunteers. It was clear through these interactions that
Art Therapy held a lot of promise for this population and can be properly
explored in the future.
- Archisha Arora,
CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
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