Art and mindfulness go hand in hand.
How? Let’s compare the two.
Mindfulness is being completely in the present moment; acknowledging and accepting our feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations. We become fully present; noticing smells, textures and colours in our environment; noticing the ways our body is moving or feeling.
When we practice mindfulness, we are acknowledging and accepting the importance of the PROCESS. We champion the experimentation, the problem-solving, the discovery and innovation that occurs during an event.
Mindfulness is the art of being present in the moment, without passing judgement about your experience. – Rhena Branch
Art is for everyone, no matter our perceived skill level or experience. We can use paint, chalk, clay, glue, tape, or scissors, moving across and around our canvas in whatever way we desire. This is what we refer to as PROCESS ART – something we are passionate about!
When we practice art, we quiet our minds and worry not about the outcome, but focus instead on the sounds, the sights, the smells of our creating. We focus on the movement and the stillness; the contrasting colours and textures.
“Art is a natural way to practice mindfulness. The colors, textures and sounds of creating pull us into the moment.” – Amy Maricle
In both art and mindfulness, we focus on the present moment and open our minds and hearts with renewed perspective. The journey becomes more important, more powerful than the destination.
As adults, we benefit tremendously from mindfulness practices such as yoga or meditation, art or music. When our children engage in these practices, the benefits are tremendously powerful.
Imagine how powerful these practices can be for children (and adults) who may not be able to articulate in words how they are feeling or what they are experiencing?
Imagine how staggering the growth and development can be for a child who is allowed to experiment, feel, process, and innovate?
Art can permeate the very deepest part of us, where no words exist. – Eileen Miller
Interested in learning more and supporting mindfulness practices for your child?
Visit these two wonderful experts we learn from!
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