Effectiveness of Self-Care: A Heuristic Study Exploring Art Making, Bikram Yoga, and Personal Journaling

• Main Author: Minardi, Gina Marie
• Format: Others
• Published: Digital Commons at Loyola Marymount University and Loyola Law School 2012
• Subjects: An Art Therapist's Self-Care; Art Therapy; Marriage and Family Therapy and Counseling; Medicine and Health Sciences; Mental and Social Health
• Online Access: https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/etd/115; https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1068&context=etd

This paper researches the effectiveness of art making, Bikram Yoga, and Personal Journaling as strategies for self-care among therapists. Literature indicates self-care is an important and essential practice for health care practitioners to best serve their clients. Literature on art making, yoga, and personal journaling are pro-active strategies in implementing self-care. The heuristic study involves a systematic process over three weeks, for the therapist to engage in all three of these activities. The data revealed immediate positive changes and a more balanced approach with clients. The techniques promoted feelings of being more present and grounded in the moment, enhanced levels of awareness, and released a sense of control in life’s daily happenings. The final art product served as a physical manifestation of the need for containment and detachment, cultivating emotional regulation. The research demonstrates the different activities that are imperative in supporting the practitioner in necessary practices of self-care.