As part of my self-healing process I have taken up creative painting. It is something that I use to do as a child growing up in Regent Park. Back then it allowed me to cope with the harsh emotional environment. I know it is what kept me sane and focused on survival. So, at this point in my life I find myself going back to the same stress reliever when I wake up at three in the morning due to the collar around my neck. (Try and picture lying flat with your neck in a brace, unable to toss or turn, or drop your chin … not the most comfortable position to be in). I found myself over the past week staring at my ceiling in the early hours thinking, and thinking.  I know you can relate to that commercial where the women is lying in bed tossing and turning thinking about the hokey pokey, that s me. So, after a couple of nights like this I decided this was not best for my emotional well-being. So, I pulled out all my paints, easel and brushes and set it all up in my bedroom and now when I wake … I’m in art therapy mode. It has helped immensely and allows me to relax for an hour or so, and then fall back to sleep for a few more hours. These are pieces I have created so far. No Robert Bateman, but a Sheilagh art.

 Art Therapy has been around since the mid-20th century. In countries such as Canada, England and the U.S., art therapy roots lies mainly in art education, the practice of art, and developmental psychology.

 The American Art Therapy Association describes it this way:  “(a)rt therapy is the therapeutic use of art making, within a professional relationship, by people who experience illness, trauma or challenges in living, and by people who seek personal development. Through creating art and reflecting on the art products and processes, people can increase awareness of self and others cope with symptoms, stress and traumatic experiences; enhance cognitive abilities; and enjoy the life-affirming pleasures of making art.”

OATA (Ontario Art Therapy Association)
Art is the tool for communication, self-examination and healing.

So my friends, my art may not sell for thousands, but it has a true benefit worth a fortune in good mental health and I highly recommend it for anyone who is thinking about the hokey pokey and starring at ceilings in the middle of the night.