Brian Berman: Art as a Path to Healing

In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety have become an everyday reality, finding ways to nurture mental and emotional well-being is more important than ever. One powerful and often under appreciated tool for healing and self-expression is art. Whether it’s painting, drawing, sculpting, or simply doodling, the act of creating art provides a unique outlet for emotions and can have profound positive effects on mental health. This path saved my life and 30+ years of gratitude. Art saved my life, so I hope as you read this, you will find your artistic expression.

The Healing Power of Creativity

Engaging in artistic activities allows individuals to express feelings that might otherwise be difficult to articulate. For those coping with anxiety, depression, or trauma, art can serve as a safe space to process complex emotions. The very act of creating—choosing colors, shaping forms, or experimenting with textures—can be meditative, helping to quiet the mind and focus on the present moment.

During my midlife, I experienced severe losses. I began to carve stones to help me express what I was feeling.

Toshiko Tanaka - Survivor of Atomic Bombing in Hiroshima. During our Pilgrimage from Auschwitz to Hiroshima, we met Toshiko and heard her survival story, and how making artwork as her self expression, led to her healing.

Toshiko was 6 years of age when the bomb destroyed city of Hiroshima. She used colored enamels to express herself. She didn't speak about her experience until she was 70 years of age.

Start them young

My Son went to Waldorf School from kindergarten through High School, learning painting, drawing, ceramics, leading to sculpture, and on to carving stone with me. He earned his BA at UC Santa Cruz.

Explore and Express Your Feelings with Art

Working with paints allows numerous ways of expressing your feelings. You don't have to know how, you can explore, you can use painting and other art forms to begin to express what you are feeling.

Art provides a safe outlet for emotions that are hard to verbalize.

Creative activities (journaling, painting, sculpting, dance, music) transform feelings into tangible forms.

Ojai Dancers Teaching Them Young

Benefits:

• Reduces anxiety and emotional tension

• Clarifies thoughts and feelings

• Offers emotional relief through visual expression

Growing Confidence Through Creativity

Completing artistic projects nurtures a sense of achievement and pride.

Benefits:

• Builds self-esteem and resilience

• Strengthens a positive self-image

• Encourages a proactive, can-do mindset

Completing projects nurtures your sense of achievement!

Staying Present Through Mindfulness

Art anchors attention in the moment, fostering mindfulness.

Benefits:

• Reduces stress and overthinking

• Encourages mental clarity and relaxation

• Deepens focus on the present

  

  

Turning Creativity Into Opportunity 

·Monetizing artistic talent boosts confidence and financial stability.

Opportunities & Benefits:

• Sell artwork online or in local markets

• Partner with businesses or accept commissions

• Affirms the value of your creativity

• Opens paths to meaningful income

  
  

  • Exhibiting my Genesis Glass Sculpture - Societe Nationale Des Beaux-Arts, Lovre Paris, France

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      We traveled to Japan and presented our 2024 Awakening Peace Award to Masami Saionji. She and family are the force behind the May Peace Prevail on Earth Peace Pole movement, and so much more.

      Art as a Path to Wellness

      
      

    • Summary of benefits:

      • Emotional release and balance

      • Improved mindfulness and clarity

      • Growth in confidence and connection

      
      

      Message: Make art a part of your journey toward a healthier, happier life.

      Explore your unique form of self-expression.