"Because of you, I laugh a little harder, cry a little less, and smile a lot more."

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When presented the chance to create art, people with developmental disabilities are invited to awaken their creative spirit. After viewing a completed piece, the individual may encounter feelings of pride or relief, which for a time may override the dark shadow a disability can cast. The effort put forth while working on a particular piece can also bring feelings of self-worth and accomplishment to the individual. Emotions and feelings that were previously tucked away may be outwardly expressed onto a canvas through various colours and rhythms. Those once hesitant thoughts are now out in the open to be shared.

As a tool for people with disabilities to accept and connect with themselves and their emotions and thoughts, mindfulness has been shown to have positive effects on mental and physical wellbeing. 

Practicing mindfulness can provide a sense of control and escapism that is helpful for the development of healthy and effective coping strategies.


SERVICE

• DURATION: 60 minutes session
• TARGET: people with special needs and those that support them
  - CHILDREN start to 6-12 years old
  - CAREGIVERS
  

BENEFITS

• Teaching daily living skills to people with developmental disabilities
• ​Encourage self-expression, communication bypassing the verbal requirements   
• Calming the mind and reducing stress
• Using creative tools are modified to accommodate various fine motor skill challenges
• Decreasing feelings of helplessness
• Decreasing feelings of hopelessness 
• Relaxation for people with chronic pain
• Improving motor function, facilitating cognitive retraining for people with brain injuries 
• Improving cognitive function and quality of life 
• Encouraging self-discovery and emotional growth
• Providing emotional and physical integration 
• Exploring feelings and mental health issues 
• Socialising

INFO & BOOKINGS

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