Ever thought about using Art and/or craft to help de-stress and wellbeing?

Art can provide opportunities to experience a renewed self-awareness and sometimes make deeper connections to others when interpret our own art in a sharing environment (Daryl Gammons-Jones, 2016).

Using art and therapy is not a new thing, it has been a form of healing for thousands of years. Creative expression can foster healing and mental wellbeing.  We can be led into a healing state by expressing ourselves in our drawings or other artworks. People can begin to analyse their art and how it made them feel, this exploration can identify conflicts and themes that effect emotions, thoughts, and behaviour, both good and bad (Cherry, 2021

On the other hand, art can not only help expression it can also be used to redirect our thoughts away from distressing emotions and back into the present moment. Giving our minds and emotions a break and thus, calming the nervous system.

An article in The Huffington Post, by James Clear, noted that a study of 30 chronically ill patients in America, showed that their medical outcome improved when participating in creating visual arts, by shifting or redirecting their attention away from their illness and decreasing feelings of depression and distress (Daryl Gammons-Jones, 2016).

As clients create art, they may analyse what they have made and how it makes them feel. Through exploring their art, people can look for themes and conflicts that may be affecting their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours

Mindful Mosaics based in Pyes Pa, Tauranga. Hold small (6-8 people) beginner choice workshops. You get all the supplies and guidance needed to make your small indoor mosaic piece as well as share your experience with others in a tranquil setting. As Julie says, “Mosaicking is a great way to switch off from the world and be in the present moment, which is so good for stress, depression and anxiety” Please check out their Facebook page ort contact Julie on 022 086 5704.

Daryl Gammons-Jones, (2016). 4 Way living with Art can change your life

4 Ways Living With Art Can Change Your Life

Cherry K, 2021. What is Art Therapy.

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-art-therapy-279575

with Kasha Latimer

in Hamilton.

I have been advised her next session will be held in July. Keep an eye out for more information coming soon.

The purpose of U3A, (An international organisation), is to encourage further learning by listening, understanding, contributing and participating in discussion and relevant excursions about new topics.

There are just under 1000 members in Tauranga, with around 100 groups the members can join, from interests including Jazz and Blues, Current Affairs, History, Geology, to Hiking or even Ethnic Dining! Meetings are held in the members’ homes or in local halls.

Once a month the members can meet at the Tauranga Yacht Club for a social morning where invited keynote speakers present illustrated talks of major interest

http://www.u3atauranga.kiwi.nz/index.php