This workshop focuses on the power of art as a self-care tool. Part interactive PowerPoint presentation, some self-reflection, and part paint workshop – this is amazing self-care for those whose work or personal lives involve caring for others, and also for those who are searching for ways to “fill their cups”.

The session includes a sage smudge to cleanse away any negative energies and to start off with a positive mindset. Information on the why, how, history, and benefits of smudging as an ancient Indigenous medicine is included. With this positive mindset we explore the idea of self-care and why it is important, along with self-reflection and creation of a personal list of self-care tools and ideas. The Medicine Wheel will also be taught as a tool for self-care that can help us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually to prevent burnout. We explore the benefits of making art and the importance of having a creative outlet, and then we spend time making a painting!

It is fitting that this workshop falls within culture days as we explore the world of painting, and in the same week as World Mental Health Day, as we explore self-care. This program is inspired by the work of Janet Fox of Mahkensis Consulting and is funded by Southern Health Mental Wellness Grant.