Inside an Art Therapy Session

When I engage in an art therapy session, it’s not just about putting paint on canvas or drawing lines on paper. It’s about embarking on a profound journey of self-discovery, emotional regulation, and healing. Each session of creating art brings therapeutic benefits, transforming how I understand and relate to myself and the world around me. Here’s how:

Practicing Radically Accepting Myself Through My Messy Art

Art making is an exercise in radical self-acceptance. By embracing the messiness and imperfections of my creations, I learn to accept myself as I am. The freedom to create without judgment or criticism fosters a deep sense of self-compassion. I begin to see my art as a reflection of my authentic self, with all its flaws and beauties.

Being Mindful: Focusing on Colors, Shapes, and Lines

Creating art is a practice in mindfulness. As I focus my attention on the colors, shapes, and lines forming on the canvas, I anchor myself in the present moment. This mindful engagement allows me to escape the worries of the past and future, centering my awareness on the here and now. It’s a meditative process that brings clarity and calm.

Regulating Intense Emotions, Stroke by Stroke

Art therapy provides a unique way to regulate intense emotions. Each brushstroke, whether applied with hard pressure or a gentle touch, becomes a conduit for my feelings. By channeling my emotions into my artwork, I gain control and insight into my emotional state, transforming chaos into calmness.

Practicing Non-Judgment and Open-Mindedness

In the creative process, I practice being non-judgmental and open-minded. This means accepting whatever appears on the canvas without criticism. Letting go of the need for perfection allows me to appreciate the unexpected beauty in my art. This shift in perspective encourages a broader acceptance of myself and my life.

Building Frustration Tolerance

Art making teaches me to tolerate frustration. Often, my art does not turn out as I envisioned, and this can be challenging. However, by facing and overcoming this frustration repeatedly, I build resilience. I learn to accept and work with my limitations, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Seeing from Different Viewpoints

Creating art allows me to explore different viewpoints and uncover deeper messages about myself and others. Each piece of art offers a new perspective, revealing insights into my inner world and relationships. This exploration fosters greater self-awareness and empathy.

Softening My Body and Breathing

Art therapy is a full-body experience. As I soften my body and breathe while making art, I feel my feet grounded on the floor. This grounding practice keeps me present and connected to my physical self. The movement of my arm, hand, and fingers becomes a dance, a physical manifestation of my emotional and mental state.

Creating a New Narrative

Through art, I create a new narrative while exploring and challenging unhelpful ones. This process allows me to reframe negative thoughts and experiences, giving me the power to write my own story. I transform old, unhelpful narratives into positive, empowering ones.

Connecting with My Body, Emotions, and Sensations

Art making helps me connect with my body, emotions, and sensations. By expressing myself visually, I tap into feelings and experiences that might be difficult to articulate. This connection fosters a deeper understanding of myself and my needs.

Embracing Quiet Reflection

In the quiet of the art therapy session, I practice tolerating reflection. This time of silence and introspection is crucial for processing emotions and gaining insights. It provides a space for personal growth and healing.

Describing Complex Experiences with Art

Art becomes a language through which I can describe complex experiences and emotions. This visual expression transcends words, allowing me to communicate and process thoughts and feelings that might be too difficult to verbalize.

Healing My Nervous System

The rhythmic line making and circular movements on the paper have a calming effect, helping to heal my nervous system. These repetitive, soothing actions lower my cortisol levels, bringing a sense of peace and stability.

Creating a Safe Space

Art therapy teaches me that I am safe and that therapy can be a safe, affirming experience where I don’t feel pressured to talk everything out. This non-verbal approach allows me to explore and express myself in a way that feels comfortable and secure.

Uncovering Buried Truths

Through art, I learn things about myself that I’ve buried, things that might feel too hard to talk about. My artwork becomes a mirror reflecting these hidden parts, bringing them to light in a gentle and non-threatening way.

Tracking Progress Over Time

One of the most rewarding aspects of art therapy is noticing how my art making changes over time. Week to week, month to month, I now have a physical representation of my progress, my healing process, and how far I’ve come. Each piece of art tells a story of my journey, capturing my emotions, thoughts, and growth.

Art therapy is a transformative practice that offers a multitude of therapeutic benefits. Through the act of creating, I am not just drawing; I am practicing radical self-acceptance, mindfulness, emotional regulation, and much more. This journey of self-discovery and healing through art is a testament to the profound power of creative expression in therapy.