Art is a vast field without limitations, a form of expression that can inspire, move and even heal people.
Its affiliation with intimate emotions has led to the creation of art being incorporated into the recovery treatment for all kinds of ailments – both physical and mental. A soothing part of many therapies, it helps people express intense emotions that are often difficult to process. Creativity as means of self-expression offers relief and often dispels the shyness brought on by the verbal articulation of problems.
For example, as two of the most frequently battled mental illnesses, anxiety and depression haunt the minds of millions around the world. Both illnesses often leave the person feeling alone, sad and full of unwanted emotions – and this dilemma is where art can help soothe the soul.
I had a chance to try Turkish marbling art in Moodist Psychiatry Hospital located in Istanbul's Üsküdar district and received first-hand information on how art activities contribute to the healing process of patients.
Often, patients at first think that they are doing it wrong or that they don't have the talent to create something beautiful, but once they start, they create pieces that leave them speechless. Marbling, in particular, is a complex but easy-to-start art technique and a perfect option for those who wish to seek relief while creating a product as it increases self-esteem and a sense of achievement.
Creating art also helps engage the mind, body, and spirit, especially for those who suffer from mental restlessness that bombards the mind all the time. Moreover, empowering the individual by including them in a social environment also contributes to the patient's well-being in developing confidence throughout the process, psychologist Irem Bengü Yılmazcan said.
Besides artwork, some unconventional activities, such as juggling and virtual reality (VR), are used during therapy to promote concentration and focus. Juggling was an especially fascinating performing art choice, and not one widely practiced within the field. As trainer Erol Yılmaz gave a short training session explaining its benefits, he explained that juggling enhances core strength and its rhythmic nature helps the mind focus on one activity while improving hand-eye coordination.
"People find it intimidating and think that they will not be able to do it. When they get used to practicing, juggling balls become an inseparable part of their lives because it helps them relax," Yılmaz said.
The VR experience, on the other hand, helps patients confront their fears and fight their addictions through simulated reality, psychologist Ayşe Sümeyra Aydoğdu explained.
