How Recovering Addicts Can Benefit Through Art and Music Therapy
Recovering addicts suffer a long and intensive journey to wellness through their recovery therapy methods. While some in recovery may feel traditional methods like a 12-step program may not be enough, non-traditional methods like art and music therapy are a great way for addicts to supplement the recovery process and express themselves non-verbally and creatively while avoiding stressful situations. Creativity and self-expression can also help reduce stress and optimize your home for positivity.
The ultimate goal is to create a sense of happiness and comfort and improve your functioning through reflection and creativity. With that in mind, here are some creative tips.
1. Painting
Whether it’s watercolor, acrylic, or oils, painting is a wonderful way for those suffering from addiction to cope. Not only is painting a quiet, soothing activity, it allows an artist to bring out whatever emotions they’re dealing with onto the paper or canvas and leave it there. Because drugs and alcohol can dull a person’s emotions, painting can bring you back to yourself, little by little.
Don’t hold back when starting a new painting project, let your imagination run wild and your emotions run through your fingertips, you’ll be surprised how uplifting the painting process can be.
2. Sculpting
Pottery is another creative outlet. Whether you’re new to pottery or have practiced it somewhat, it is a great way to listen to yourself while expressing inner emotions. Pottery is great because the process allows you to develop confidence in your expressive capabilities while creating artwork that is both beautiful and functional.
Allow yourself to create a safe space in your home, where you can play music and let your emotions run wild while challenging yourself with pottery creations. Pottery is beneficial to wellness. While it engages your creative energy, it also allows you to master physical dexterity and promotes a sense of accomplishment in your pieces.
3. Creative Writing
Some people may argue that creative writing is not an artistic activity, but it is not true. If you feel that drawing, painting or sculpting may not be for you, then look at putting pen to paper.
Creative writing will help calm the thoughts in your head, through putting your emotions, feelings and experiences down on paper. Consider either purchasing a journal and letting the words flow or, if you’re ready for the world to hear your story and experiences, then start an online blog and share openly with the world.
The writing process is liberating, and you can put into words what is going on in your mind. There is no limit to what you can choose to write: fiction, poetry, nonfiction and more.
4. Music
You don’t need a comprehensive musical background to actively engage in music therapy as part of your recovery process. Music is a great form of self-expression and allows for nonconventional communication.
Using music as part of your recovery can be done by singing, listening to music, songwriting, or creating music.
Start by finding or creating a safe and secure space within your home. This can be your study or a corner in a room where you may have space and won’t be disturbed. Listening to music that allows you to relax, or simply music that connects with you on a personal and emotional level can already create a sense of self-worth and a purpose in direction. Organize a playlist for yourself that you can listen to regularly and use it as a form of meditation.
If you have an old musical instrument lying around, challenge yourself by learning to play it through online platforms.
Songwriting is also a great form of expression. Pick up an old guitar and strum a tune while you sing. Writing songs and music is a great way to empower yourself, increase attention and concentration while learning to cope with your recovery journey.
Use Your New Passion to Earn Extra Income
If you become passionate about music or a particular type of art, you could start a side gig using your new skill. There are many businesses looking to bring on creative types whether you’re an illustrator, graphic artist, or song writer. Simply visit online job boards and advertise your services.
Therapy methods that may work for one recovering addict, may not necessarily work for another. Allow yourself the time to commit to the type of art or music therapy and be patient during the process. As you continue your journey through recovery, you’ll find a creative outlet that helps you through the peaks and valleys of the path to sobriety.
Check out more from Patrick by clicking on the link below. His website includes tons of interesting fun facts and information!
Author: Patrick Young http://ableusa.info/
Image via Pixabay.com
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