Art for Wellbeing Workshops

I’ve been running art for wellbeing workshops recently with Cwm-Ni Iach and Community First, aiming to improve participants emotional and mental health, using creative techniques. In both groups, we’ve used the space and time to talk about how creativity can help us to explore our emotions and provide an outlet for difficult feelings, as well as the happier ones.  These are the types of workshops that anyone can take part in – you don’t have to be great at art, you  don’t even have to share your work with others.  Sometimes, our work is very private, and the group respects that and maintains boundaries. During each session, a different creative technique or type of artwork is focused on, and its potential for our use is discussed.  Within the group, psychoeducational information on emotional and mental health issues is discussed in a safe and confidential space. These are not purely art groups – these are art for wellbeing groups where therapeutic work is done via creative methods.  Participants are introduced to techniques that they can take away with them and use at home.

Example of Creative Work in Art for Wellbeing Workshop

During one session, participants created “Gratitude Jars”.   We discussed the positive psychology theory of “gratitude” and how our outlook in life can change if we look out for and keep a record of those things in life that we appreciate.  During the session, we talked about the little things in life that make us happy and lift our mood, and how, most of the time, we pay scant attention to them.  Paying more attention to these little things, and having gratitude for them, can lead to an improvement in mood and stress levels, and an overall enjoyment in our lives.

To make a Gratitude Jar

You need: Glass Jar or a Box Decorating materials (I always have a huge selection with me) Glue Post-it Notes

Here are some of the finished items. art for wellbeing

Important information

BACP Accreditation logo

I have:

  • a current enhanced DBS check,
  • safeguarding training for children and vulnerable adults,
  • BACP Accredited Counsellor/ Psychotherapist – MBACP(Accred),
  • MA Arts Practice (Art, Health and Wellbeing), PGCE.

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