Heartfelt Art Therapy

Hadn’t thought of spells this way..

https://youtu.be/gm9CIJ74Oxw

Thanks to NCABM for permission to share this infographic, adapted from Terry Real’s research (MSW, LICSW)

https://fb.me/e/42I7P1qsg

Beyond Buttons ! A glimpse into Art Therapy Buttons are wonderful tools in the Spotted Dog Art Therapy Studio, and I utilize them alot! Buttons are very user friendly. They require no creative experience or skill, after all they are simple and straight forward. They are just buttons right? Or are they? Buttons as therapeutic tools can help a client bypass defences,...Continue reading

A gentle reminder that the importance of the present moment, cannot be understated in terms of regulating the nervous system.

True of all our animals at Heartfelt Farm

This week was very special at the farm. Our second camp brought sweet encounters with the children, art, nature and the animals! So many moments of soft connection between the four legged, two legged and winged ones. Though not therapy-focused it was very therapeutic. I’d like to think it was a place of solace during a stressful time. Here is a mix of photos that I hope, captures some of the experiences our new little friends of Heartfelt Farm enjoyed. (Posted with permission).

We're so pleased to be able to offer this exciting opportunity for your 6-10 year olds. Spots are limited (max 6 groups).

For several years now, Poly-Vagal theory has been a foundational component of my work in the practice of Equine Facilitated Wellness and Art Therapy. I’ve witnessed clients of all ages make profound changes in their day to day lives, when they Learn to befriend their own nervous system, beginning with tracking their window of tolerance or W.O.T.! This chart is a simple but accessible snap-shot of this.... Why would we want to do that?? When we are in a Ventral state we have more available to us for social engagement, and it’s emergent properties of curiosity, play, and compassion. We can learn more easily, make wise choices, feel a sense of common humanity, find solutions to the problems we encounter and explore options. When in a Ventral state we also can connect more deeply with ourselves and others. A sense of safety and competency is added in, which can result in a reduced anxiety levels, relaxation and calm. The Window of tolerance model can be applied to our interactions with people and our animal friends, and promotes more meaningful connection with both! I am also happy to learn that Poly-Vagal theory is starting to be included when looking into models of training animals, such as dogs and cats. Resulting in more ethical practice and happier animals!

Trouble sleeping? Feeling anxious? Zentangle drawing is a mindful meditative drawing practice that can be helpful in supporting a sense of well-being. Want to learn how? Message me for more info! Enough interest and I’ll host an online class!

Here is a sensory scavenger hunt perfect for little nervous system regulation! Courtesy of Sharla Kostelyk of The a chaos and the Clutter!.

Many tokens of Heartfelt Gratitude were warmly received by the Saanich Police and Municipality workers yesterday! Thank you to all the artists young and old, who took the time to paint these beauties! If you want to keep painting I’ll keep spreading the love, to local hospitals and carehome workers!

https://www.thechaosandtheclutter.com//the-importance-of-s I thought this article might be useful for families living in tight quarters during this time of Social Isolation. :) In my Therapeutic Practice I have witnessed the importance of Sensory Play. As well, the variety of materials utilized in Art Therapy, hold many therapeutic properties. Be Well everyone!

A smile and sweet gratitude for all those serving our community!

The Swallows have returned and I am delighted! Not only are they mesmerizing to watch, as they navigate the sky with fluidity and acrobatic prowess, but I find their confidence and (dare I say) joyfully exuberant flight a welcome lesson in these challenging times. As I watch them overhead, swooping in graceful arcs against the blue sky, I am struck by the confidence they hold in their dark, sleek aerodynamic bodies, showing no hesitation to quickly course correct, while fl...ying at such high speeds! They demonstrate grace and ease and flexibility of mind, as they share space with other swallows, and swoop around the sky in such magnificent, daring arcs! Swallow reminds me to move and trust my body, to build strength, confidence and to practice a kind, forgiving relationship with myself. Her quick ever changing patterns, no doubt promote mental keenness and deepen connections in her neurobiology as well. She reminds me to practice agility of thought and flexibility of mind so I can make daily course corrections with ease. She teaches me to share generously and to be in the present moment. Somehow Swallow imparts this knowledge by just being herself, and so I am encouraged to trust and simply do the same. Fly well, be well this day. (Painting on Rock by Joy Croll) See more

Sharing another lovely gift of a rock painting, to celebrate spring and a gift to all those who are helping in the Community during these uncertain times!

For all those serving the community Bee Safe! Artwork donated by Joy Croll

Beautiful rocks by Alyssa! Thanks for the pics and sharing your talents with the world!

This lovely little gratitude rock (artist Joy C.), reminds us to offer ourselves comfort during times of uncertainty. Perhaps something as simple as a warm cup of tea, connecting with loved ones, or the calm that accompanies us when we are engaged in something creative.

Gratitude rocks by Alyssa! Just love these!

So thrills to have more contributions arrive today for the Heartfelt Gratitude Rocks! Thankyou Tianna, Owen and Joy for sharing your creativity and gratitude with first responders and helpers in our community!

Heartfelt Gratitude Rocks are piling up! More artful creations from Kirsten, Dick, Bella and Imogen! Thank you guys!

https://www.kqed.org//four-core-priorities-for-trauma-info

Engaging in play can be wonderful way to shift anxiety! Let’s play with paint and add to the Gratitude Rock challenge collection! These are from the Croll Family! Aren’t they exquisite? Add your own and send to me, I will post them! Thank you

Just had to show a few closeups of these beauties! Love all the gratitude rock donations that are coming in!

The collection is growing.. add your own to the pile! Or take a pic and I’ll post it here!

Today a beautiful collection of rocks were added to the Heartfelt Gratitude Rock Project! I will be featuring these the next few days! Thanks to Riki, Ryan, Jamie, Stella and Joy! I know many helpers and first responders in our community will be touched by your efforts, and reminded of how grateful we are for their commitment!