Sensorimotor Art Therapy & Bilateral Guided Drawing
Create new neural pathways through bilateral guided drawing
What is Bilateral Guided Drawing and how can it help me? Cornelia Elbrecht, Institute for Sensorimotor Art Therapy developed this evidence-based sensorimotor, somatic trauma therapy. Cornelia describes it as a "self-massage" but I also think of it as a Mental Health Massage. My clients usually end a session feeling "lighter" or "more relaxed" or "less-stressed."
A 'bottom-up' technique such as this, using body awareness, presence, movement, self-regulation, titration, self-understanding, and “active meditation”, releases and restores previously blocked natural rhythms. This kinaesthetic, mostly nonverbal approach empowers the client to help themselves by asking what does my body need, and thus finding an active response to a traumatic experience. You will be guided by your therapist, Robin, to scan your body for any discomfort or stress, and you then respond with what resonates with your internal body experience. There is no right or wrong' way of doing this and there are no rules. You do not have to have any artistic ability. Think of it as a mental health massage that reduces stress, discomfort and tension.
Using both hands simultaneously, engages both hemispheres of the brain, creating new neural pathways, releasing stored trauma through body awareness and movement which is tracked on paper using pastels and paint. Slowing down and focusing on one sensation at a time, provides insight and information to process stored traumatic feelings. Titration creates safety by reducing feelings of panic or overwhelm. Guided Drawing requires mindfulness, sensory awareness, and trust.
Cornelia Elbrecht is the founder and director of the Institute for Sensorimotor Art Therapy in Apollo Bay, Victoria, Australia and author of the book, Healing Trauma with Guided Drawing, A Sensorimotor Art Therapy Approach to Bilateral Body Mapping
Read more about Cornelia Elbrecht.
Read about Sensorimotor Art Therapy
DR. PETER LEVINE says, I have come to the conclusion that human beings are born with an innate capacity to triumph over trauma. I believe not only that trauma is curable, but that the healing process can be a catalyst for profound awakening—a portal opening to emotional and genuine spiritual transformation.
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