DIY Insights: Art Therapy Prompt ~ Externalising our thoughts

August 3, 2020 /

*Any activity when done with intention and conscious sitting can turn into tools that take us a step deeper into the working of our inner worlds. And a step by step DIY instruction manual always helps! Here I list 2 easy and quick exercises that can help access our inner worlds and at the same time handle any pressure or negative feelings one might be experiencing. What I love about these prompts is that they can be conveniently done by yourself or you can choose to do this with a friend/s, partner, family member/s – irrespective of age and gender. I have found 6-year-olds enjoying and finding meaning in this as much as 35yr olds, as much as 70 yr olds! As an expressive arts therapist I can assure that art making has deep, therapeutic value and is more than a ‘passing-time’ exercise.

  1. Postcard Activity

The Postcard activity helps express our feelings in a safe way and thus externalise emotions that are lingering underneath. The question we attempt to answer through this activity is
“How am I feeling about what is happening?”

You will need:

  • Colouring pens and pencils
  • Glitter, sequins, and glue (if desired)
  • Any other art material you want to work with

    Begin by:
    • Make a postcard template to use. One side can be completely blank for drawing on and the other side can have lines for writing.
    • Choose someone you trust as the receiver of the postcard and imagine sending it to them. The receiver can be a person, an imaginary character, God or even yourself.
    • Reflect on a situation you feel anxious or upset about. Spend a moment simply thinking about and reflecting on what happened, how it felt, and what you would like to let the person know about how the experience made you feel.
    • On the blank side of the postcard, start with the drawing. Draw or create a visual representation of how you feel about the experience. There is total freedom with this, and you can create anything – abstract, colour blends, lines, mandala etc
    • After you’ve drawn, sit back and take some time to understand your art work. There are no fixed interpretations so ask yourself about the symbolisms of the colours, imagery, lines, patterns etc that has been expressed.
    • On the lined side of the postcard, write what you would like to say about the situation. Use this space not to simply describe what you have drawn but more about the symbolisms or underlying meaning that has reflected back at you.
    • After you’ve finished, sit with your postcard and let it speak with you. You will find clarity on your question, “How am I feeling about what is happening?”
    • Journal or discuss with trusted family / friends about it.

    In case you want to share your reflections and art work, or want to book a private session for deeper facilitation; you can reach out: nandrihealing@gmail.com

    Much Love,
    Nandri

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