Creative Expression For Mind-Body Health


Our daily lives often move at breakneck speed. Between long work days and busy home lives there is very little time for rest and relaxation, let alone a moment to actually focus on our mental health. Stressors can be found all around us. From the daily grind, to current events in the news, and even the continued uncertainty around the COVID-19 pandemic.

Many people take to their smartphones, using technology and social media as a distraction, as an escape from the reality around them. While it may be comforting, adding screen time to an already busy life may only exacerbate any mental health issues. However, there is a way to get out of the “rut” and find a way back to peace and harmony.

Throughout history, the arts, music, and humanities have served as a medium for healing. Creative expression can foster self-discovery of inner resources, cultivate resilience during life challenges, and transcend socio-cultural barriers through a shared language. This interdisciplinary series aims to explore the role of creative expression in addressing multiple dimensions of mind-body health across the lifespan. Leading UCSF clinicians, researchers, and expressive art therapists from geriatrics, neuroscience, oncology, otolaryngology, pediatrics, physical therapy, and psychiatry present the science behind creative expression, discuss case examples, and lead experiential demonstrations.

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