Arts Can Help Heal the Body and Mind
September 8, 2009
Yes, it is true. Arts can be a treatment in conjunction to modern medicine to help heal the mind and body. One could experience it to believe it; just watch a group of students having a classical concert or playing folk music after a busy exam day and just relaxing with his friends and classmates. Well arts help to relax anyone after a busy day of manual or mental work.
Art in any form maybe music, dance, drama, writing, drawing or photography; anything that is out of the ordinary and creative helps to heal the mind, body and soul. It would be interesting to note here that Greek drama was a form of emotional catharsis and Tibetans used chanting, bells and singing as a part of emotional healing.
Art of any form helps to change ones perception of life, pain and emotional state and has a great influence on ones nervous system, hormonal balance and the blood circulation system.
The first step towards the use of art to heal ones body and mind starts with finding the time and space to do it. Even busy people can make time once a week on weekends to do something like hearing music, singing, sketching or even going for a nature walk equipped with a digital camera. Patients undergoing treatment for physical and mental ailments can find something creative to do everyday where they devote their full time and attention to it. It is very important for one to be fully involved in this creative process.
The next thing that is to be kept in mind is that one should choose an art medium that one is comfortable in and that allows one to express themselves fully. Believe me, what you do need not be a masterpiece. The main aim of the activity should be that you should feel comfortable and good doing it; be calm and cool and do not expect that you should always be perfect.
The form of art therapy one undertakes can be visual like drawing , painting, collage using scraps of paper or dry leaves or flowers, cuttings from magazines or photography. Some others may appreciate performing arts like drama, dance, singing or playing an instrument. Some may enjoy writing poems, stories and articles. There are others who enjoy cooking, knitting, embroidery or interior decoration.
Hence dear friends, use art or creative pursuits as a means to help heal the mind and body; and lastly do use it as a measure to prevent diseases of the mind and body.
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