Zen gardening is a transformation tool that is useful for de-stressing. Also known as sand combing or artscaping, this calming practice originated with Buddhist monks. The rocks represent mountains and the white sand is supposed to show the water element. Gently manipulating a desktop Zen garden is a way of actively meditating. Once relaxed, a person can think more clearly, which can in turn lead to self growth.
Kits can be purchased that provide all the ingredients for a personal Zen garden, but these gardens can also be created from items found in any craft store. This art project starts with a shallow tray, white sand, smooth stones and tiny rakes. In lieu of rakes, you can use a fork or other tool to manipulate the sand.
If done as a group project, the variety among everyone's Zen gardens will be evident. Placing the stones and creating paths are a completely individual artistic practice. Other miniatures can be added to further personalize the space.
Women and men alike can partake in a doll making art therapy class. Men may choose to call their creations totems or mobiles. In a group setting, leaders can encourage participants to use whatever material they desire to create a doll. According to Julia Cameron in her book, "The Vein of Gold," doll making is a potent tool for manifestation and self growth.
Adults who want to try this art therapy technique should look for doll making supplies in unlikely places: the kitchen, the bathroom, the basement. They can gather the items that might work and start assembling. The doll could end up being an encouragement and self affirming doll, or it could turn into a monster that helps you see clearly what is going on inside of you.
Intuitive painting goes by several different names. It is also called free painting, free expression, soul painting, source painting and process painting. Regardless of the name, using painting to connect with what is stirring within is a popular art therapy experience for adults.
Paper and inexpensive art supplies are all you need. The more common and less expensive the better. It can be difficult to encourage self growth when the person is focused on "ruining" good art materials.
Adults should paint in silence without any expected outcome. They can paint abstract designs or challenge themselves to paint a house, a garden or a self portrait. The idea is to push through with whatever way the painting unfolds. Self censorship is discouraged when painting intuitively.