Exploring the Practice of Navigating Back to Self Through Art Therapy
Nicola Black- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Navigating your way back to Self and staying grounded when circumstances get hard and overwhelming is something we all can do, it’s just a matter of remembering to do it! I often forget to come back to-centre and stay present, but we can train our minds and bodies to remember. For me, making this into a life-balance practice has been a wild ride: processing old stuff and new stuff, being a mum, deeply unpacking things I have experienced, having uncomfortable conversations, doing loads of body work, getting past addiction, becoming an art therapist, learning to release and let go...and I’m still a work-in-progress!
Connecting with our authentic Self is a profound, shared, and ancient understanding within us all. However, life's distractions and challenges can sometimes distance us from our Self. We may lose sight of who we are due to disconnection from ourselves and others, being separated from nature, experiencing trauma, or grappling with emotions like shame, fear, anger, and unworthiness. Additionally, the overwhelming pressure from the world around us cannot be overlooked. At times, it's the simplicity of our daily routines that leaves us feeling stuck. The solution is straightforward: we practice, we play, we open our hearts, and we learn to honor ourselves, each other, and the world around us. The more we engage in this, the more we trust in our true nature. Over time, we learn to embrace it fully, share it, and live from that place of deep authenticity.
As an art therapist, I have the privilege of witnessing individuals navigating back to Self through the art therapy process. One of the most profound experiences I've had was with a group of elder women who called themselves the “Wattle Seed Sisters” in an online art therapy group. Throughout a series of sessions, the group explored the journey back to authenticity. In one session, themed “Tree as Me,” participants created art using paint on paper, using the tree as a metaphor for Self. The group, all having experienced trauma, spent time reflecting and sharing as they engaged in the process.
The experience was filled with meaningful conversations about letting go of old patterns, reclaiming joy, and rediscovering their true selves. When they came together to share what they had made, they noticed common themes: reaching for the sky, strong roots, and a sense of being a forest together. One powerful insight was the idea that “the seed starts with the first family experience”, sparking discussions on change, self-love, and resilience. I was humbled to witness their courage, their playfulness, and the beauty of how they showed up for themselves and each other.
This experience reminds me that centring ourselves is essential to self discovery, navigating life's challenges and embracing our humanity, whether it's through art therapy, engaging in activities that bring joy, spending time in nature, staying physically active, or simply having fun.
Authored by Nicola Black on 24.03.2025 (Equanimity Arts Pty Ltd)
* All shared information is provided with consent, and details have been anonymized to ensure confidentiality.
