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By Dee Russell
Here's my prescription for Wellness:
+ Nutrition & exercise
+ Affirming, positive thoughts
+ Creative Expression
= Wellness
Yes, this is an oversimplification and there are other factors involved. However, paying attention to these areas can dramatically improve the balance and well-being one experiences in life. In our culture, there is substantial focus placed on the first two variables, yet limited attention is given to the third, creative expression, which is at least equally important.
Most people who have engaged in some form of creative expression during a crisis in their lives report that the experience was very healing. It allowed them to express themselves, to communicate emotions that were not easily expressed through verbal or other left-brain methods, and to get in touch with aspects of themselves that were dormant or hidden. Also, most people report that they experienced a deep sense of peace, even if only for a short while. And even 'a short while' can make a big difference. When asked why they think this occurs, many describe a sense of being fully present in the moment, focused on the creative project, past regrets and future worries forgotten. We are learning through research that when these conditions exist, healing occurs.
In his book, Creative Healing, Michael Samuels, MD, explains how and why this occurs:
**"While fully engaged in the process of creative expression, the body's physiology changes from one of stress to one of deep relaxation, from one of fear to one of creativity and inspiration. Creative expression can actually change one's brain wave pattern, and affect the autonomic nervous system, hormonal balance and brain neurotransmitters. It can affect every cell in the body, changing the immune system and blood flow to all the organs and creating a healing physiology."
"Creative expression can also change a person's perceptions of the world: their attitude, emotional state, and pain perception. It can transform an individual's outlook and way of being in the world, create hope and a positive outlook and help cope with difficulties."**
Those of us who have experienced this know it to be true, and now there are actual studies and research that measure the specific physiological effects of art, music, dance and other forms of creative expression to support it. So why wait? Begin a creative project today...it's not only good for your health, it's FUN!!!!
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Dee Russell, MBA, MA Psychology is the Founder of Therapeutic Entertainment Products, Inc., whose mission is 'inspiring creativity as an aid to healing®'. The Company provides high-quality creative expression kits and products, ranging from art, crafts, and hobbies, to music, magic, humor and more. Dee also conducts workshops and seminars for nurses, social workers and other caregivers on integrating creative expression into patient care, and will be introducing online courses and coaching soon. Visit the website and sign-up for the free e-newsletter, CreativityHeals! at http://www.creativityheals.com.
Welcome to the place where you can finally get to work on your dream!
HowMuchJoy.com
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