I've been teaching all of my classes about mindful art and how it can be a powerful tool to ease anxiety, improve focus and clarity, and calm the nervous system. Every, single, day I can see that I've made the right choice because these kids are starving for quiet and calm. It has made this first week, which started pretty crappy, end with feelings of hope and fulfillment.
So, this first Friday of the first week of school, I came home and started on my own mindful art and also went back to some pieces that I started years ago and never finished. When I read the words I had written around the perimeter of this mandala, I was taken right back to one of the hardest times of my life, but also to the very beginning of my healing. I turned to art making when I'm surprised I could focus on anything at all. But I got a start. It seems fitting that it has been sitting, unfinished for 6 years, waiting.
Now it's time to bring it "full circle". I finished it with new words, along with before and after dates, so I'll always my remember why this mandala is so significant.
This is just more evidence of the power of art and I'm so happy to spread the joy of it.
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