Did you know that when you create art, decreases our cortisol level (or stress), and can change the chemicals in the brain?
In fact, there is a particular type of advice dedicated to art as a therapeutic treatment, and is called art therapy.
The process of creating a painting, a sculpture or any other type of art, including the art of writing such as poetry or stories, can help to develop the self-awareness and self-esteem. The release of creative energy generates internal activity which helps to produce physical healing, mental and spiritual. For those who can't create for themselves, the opportunity to experience the art of others can produce similar benefits.
What's best of all? 't need to be an artist to benefit from art therapy. If you're not sure of yourself, I recommend to start with something small or simple, such as a colouring sheet.
With a book and some crayons is enough to start this journey of self-discovery. It is not necessary to have any kind of training or know how to draw, how important it is to express with colors and shapes, emotions, sensations and thoughts that we, as if we were small girls. There is No way to do it wrong, because in art there is no beautiful or ugly, it is about creating a safe space for connection and authentic expression.
What exactly is art therapy?
The art therapy can be simply defined as the use of art to promote healing. The art in this sense addresses the needs-physical, emotional and spiritual that accompany a cancer diagnosis.
The art can be used experiential, such as viewing paintings in a museum or in a book, or a creative way, such as painting, drawing, sculpting, beading, or other types of creative activities.
It is a therapy that keeps us in an active position, we did not receive a treatment as a passive entity, but the therapy itself demands of our active participation, painting, creating, imagining, and participating in the group.
In addition, it has been observed that the art therapy community help to maintain and create interpersonal relationships, promoting socialization and integration in the group.
Benefits for people with cancer
It is well known that cancer patients are faced with a high dose of anxiety, depression, and fatigue, which may affect their treatment, in addition to have a significant impact on your quality of life. For this reason, in the last few years have developed different alternatives that seek to minimize these factors, trying to maximize the benefits in patients.
In fact, it has been shown in multiple studies to create art to help with physical and emotional well being. Other benefits for people with cancer may include:
– Strong calming effect.
– Provides the opportunity to learn new skills
– Increases confidence and self-esteem.
– Improvement of mood, along with a decrease of sadness and anxiety.
– Feel more in control of your life and your diagnosis.
Many people, including patients in treatment for physical illness or emotional, are struggling to verbalize their fears. Repressed feelings resulting exacerbate the tension and uneasiness. Visual art, followed perhaps to reflect on the apparent meaning and symbolic, it can be cathartic and rewarding.
Final thoughts:
You already know. When faced with the complex emotions that leads to a diagnosis of cancer, don't underestimate the healing power of art. You can be a constructive way to express themselves, to channel the frustration and anger and calm the mind. Give it a try!
Nathaly Bosch
Social communicator and Collaborator for Group Morivivi.
