by Kyiara Jackson

In the world of self-care, expressive arts serve as an innovative approach to healing and personal growth that taps into the potential within us all. While many identify expressive arts therapy as requiring assistance from a therapist, it should be noted that you can embark on this creative journey outside the counseling setting. In this blog, we will explore the transformative benefits and various art forms provided in the world of self-guided expressive arts. 

The Power of Self-Guided Expressive Arts

• Emotional Release: Expressive arts can provide an outlet for your emotions which releases tension and stress.

• Empowerment: Creating art empowers you to take control of your healing journey. You become the artist and curator of your emotions. 

• Self-Awareness: Through creative expression, you gain insight into your emotions, thoughts, and experiences. 

• Stress Reduction: Expressive arts help you to use your imagination, which heals your inner child while decreasing anxiety and stress.

• Personal Growth: Self-guided expression gives you the safe space to face your traumas, overcome challenges, and improve your emotional intelligence.

Art Forms for Self-Healing

• Crafts & DIY Projects: Using your hands for projects such as knitting, woodworking, pottery, or jewelry-making can be soothing. Creating something tangible can boost your sense of accomplishment. 

• Dance & Movement: Moving the body is a powerful form of self-expression; you can take a class or just dance around your home. Do a body scan before and after to assess how you feel once you incorporate movement.

• Music: Whether your playing an instrument, singing, or simply listening to music you can elevate your mood by turning on your favorite song. Music has the power to evoke emotions and can be healing.

• Photography: Photography allows you to see the world through a unique lens and can be used for self-reflection. Capturing moments, places, and objects that resonate with you creates a visual journal of gratitude. 

• Visual Arts: Painting, drawing, and sculpting are great ways to express your feelings. While you can take a class with an instructor, you can also grab a sketchbook or paper you have at home to create a masterpiece. 

• Writing: Creative writing, journaling, and poetry can provide clarity and insight. It can be therapeutic to write about your thoughts and experiences. Being able to lock your journal or rip out a page after writing about a challenging situation can provide a much-needed sense of release. 

Expressive arts can be an effective tool in the process of healing and self-discovery. In conjunction with talk therapy, self-guided expression can be a great coping skill to combat stress, anxiety, and address past trauma. By exploring different art forms, you can begin to better regulate your emotions, increase your sense of self, and tap into a new world of creativity. Please remember that art is subjective; meaning there is no right or wrong to what you create. Your journey to self-healing is personal to you and can be a wonderful experience. Let go of your inner critic and have some fun while you express yourself!

If you are in the Nashville area and looking for a safe space to share your art, NCTP invites you to join us on the first Friday of every month from 7-9pm for our “Mental Health Open Mic Night”.