We live in a society where stress and anxiety seem to dominate our lives, our attention is under siege, busy is a badge of honor, and self-care has been reduced to a meme we chuckle at while scrolling. I sometimes imagine this looking like the dust cloud swirling around Linus from Charles Schultz’ Peanuts characters. Given this, it is becoming even more essential that we give ourselves permission to step away and find some dedicated time each day for rejuvenation.
One way I have recently been doing this through the practice of Neurographica. This innovative art form is gaining increasing recognition for its ability to unlock creativity, reduce stress, and promote self-discovery.
What is Neurographica?
Neurographica is an art therapy and self-discovery technique developed by Russian psychologist and artist Pavel Piskarev in 2014. This innovative approach combines elements of drawing, psychology, and neurobiology to help individuals access their subconscious and release emotions, thoughts, and creative energies to build more harmony in their lives.
The term "Neurographica" is derived from the words "neuro" (related to the nervous system) and "graphica" (related to drawing or writing). The theory behind this method is rooted in self-discovery and self-awareness such that one can gain deep insights and discover new perspectives.
The process involves creating intricate, abstract drawings by following a methodology that encompasses body and mind awareness. The holistic approach engages both hemispheres of the brain and encourages a deep connection between the conscious and unconscious mind. Working with energies in the body and mind and translating those onto the paper allows the drawing to reflect back to you a heightened self-awareness and deep understanding. This presence practice often yields a harmonious solution once all hard edges are smoothed out allowing us to see a resolution more clearly.
Benefits of Neurographica
Neurographica has been shown to reduce stress by offering an easy-to-follow method of drawing lines and shapes, adding color and accents and also reflecting both before and after, to encourage a soothing state of flow that is also very relaxing.
The emotional release that one can get through what is called ‘catharsis’ really does translate pent up feelings and emotions into a visual representation.
Neurographica also requires concentration and attention to detail, which increases focus and taps into mindful seeing.
By connecting with both sides of the brain as well as our consciousness and subconscious, the drawing method can also aid in problem-solving and innovative thinking.
Finally, because it is abstract and based on personal expression, anyone can do it, even if you don’t think you’re creative.
Just last night, the Mindful Expressions group was absolutely shocked at the palpable shift from pre- to post-drawing. One participant said, “my first reflection included many to-do items and future planning but afterward my reflection is completely focused and present.” Another said, “the first reflection included many words and feelings of anxiety. After the drawing, all my words and bodily sensations are completely calm.” All of them so enjoyed the activity that they plan to repeat it this week as part of their growing home practice.
How do I get started?
Whether you're looking to reduce stress, explore your inner world, or enhance your creativity, Neurographica can be a valuable tool in your self-care toolbox. If you’re interested in exploring it for yourself, schedule your 1:1 call now to learn more about how this approach can be part of an overall package of Createfulness (Creativity + Mindfulness) sessions with Vanessa.
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