Is Art the New Prozac?

Welcome to Art and Healing Wednesday!!

I love art.  I love everything about it; seeing it, making it, buying it, selling it, studying it, just everything about it makes my heart sing.  I’m not only talking about visual art because music, dance, poetry, and literature are all part of my creative toolbox.  So what is it about art that’s so powerful?

If you’re like me, the idea of art is to tell a story.  Just think of the ballet or the opera and you know it’s about the story.  Watch a good film and you know that even if the acting isn’t the greatest, if the story is good then it has merit.  Ever listen to a performance poet deliver words in a ay that sends shivers up and down your spine?  I have!

I know for me, personally, that art has an impact on my physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.  There have been times when I haven’t been creating artwork and family and friends turn around and ask the last time I was in the studio.  I ask them “Why” and undoubtedly they respond because you’re grumpy or sad or some other type of negative emotion.  I get back to the studio and Voila…all better.

The same has been true for me and writing.  I love writing these posts and with my new schedule didn’t feel I had the time.  I recommitted myself to this process because sharing ideas for health and healing is pivotal to my work on this planet, my reason for being here and do deny that part of myself is detrimental to my health.

When I came up to Buffalo, the first thing I packed in the car was my sewing machine and supplies.  Unfortunately I broke part of the set-up so I’ve been a bit behind the eight ball, but I have knitting with me and that’s a meditative endeavor.

Art allows you to tell your story and we know from research that when you tell your story you feel better.  When others bear witness to your story you feel validated and less isolated.  Your story is what leaves a permanent mark on the heart and soul of others.

I hope you find a creative outlet for your story.  Have something you’d like to share with the rest of us?  I’d love to see what you create…send them to greg@survivingstrong.com and if you want maybe we can put the picture of the work and a blurb on the website so you can share your healing journey.