If I could relay one thing, it is this: art is a form of therapy...

I would like for this text to be about more than just the trappings of my mind
If I could relay one thing, it is this: art is a form of therapy
If you are so inclined, writing your way through the pain provides clarity
Truly, and in absolutes
This is what I have learned
Since my mind is a mirror museum
Thoughts reflecting off the energy of my being, and thus, appearing misconstrued and jostled
And the occurrence of these thoughts causes an absence of consciousness
I know a thing about the need to escape from one’s mind
There is a way, I say
There is always a way •

Everyone struggles mentally in some way, however for some the struggle can become so encompassing that it interferes with daily functioning.

However there is always a tactile way to overcome this in daily life, especially for those with mood disorders — like me.

For me, and many other with mood disorders, the simply practicing of an art form we enjoy can be truly cathartic. So much so, that for some the act of practicing this art form eliminates all symptoms in the moment, whilst practicing.

For me, this art form is writing. It is as if the pain escapes me, just as the pen glides across the paper.

We may all find it helpful to discover an art form — woodwork, illustrating, smithing, piano — there are so many art forms available to choose from, and find one which may help.

Take this art form along with therapy and prescribed medications; mental health care is a multufactorial practice requiring several simultaneous approaches, all working in conjunction with one another. We must find what works and practice it when we need. This is how we survive, day-to-day.

I hope this helps. •

Poem from Ether & Toil, not yet available, but click the button below for first two books
© Aisha Tariqa Abdul Haqq Publishing
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