3 Creative Expression Activities in Libraries that promote well-being
If you work at a library and you are the kind of person that cringes at the thought of creating something artistically… you have come to the right place. Hi, I am Bea, and I love anything that has to do with creative expression; writing, painting, dancing, music, anything.
But enough about me. I want to share with you 3 creative expression activities that you can implement at your library without making you feel overwhelmed, stressed or anxious. These creative expression activities can help promote the well-being of staff and patrons at your library. I created a resource guide for you as you implement these strategies, click here to access the free guide.
So let’s get started:
Paint that feeling: Art has an incredible ability to unlock emotions and provide an avenue for self-expression. You can start by hosting artistic expression groups where patrons paint feelings and emotions they are experiencing. You want to start this activity by expressing to the participants that there is no right or wrong way to express their emotions through art. One important thing to talk about is any blocks creatively that they might experience. A lot of us as adults believe that we are not creative enough or that we have to have a perfect image in order for it to be artistic. That is not the case.
Writing Workshops for Emotional Expression: Writing is a powerful tool for processing emotions and experiences. Libraries can organize writing workshops that focus on various forms of self-expression, such as journaling, poetry, or storytelling. These sessions create a supportive environment for individuals to share their thoughts and feelings through words. One way to get started is through prompts. Identify a topic for that week and write 3-4 questions that patrons can select from to get started with their writing.
Mindful Movement: Moving our body creatively is very powerful. It increases body awareness and helps express our emotions outside of more common ways, like writing or painting. In this activity, have patrons stand up and walk around the room until you give them an emotion. Once that emotion is given, they must stop walking and position their body in a way that represents that emotion. Give patrons an opportunity to express what they thought of that body position. If they don’t want to express it verbally, you can offer paper so that they can write about it.
Moving our body creatively is very powerful!
It increases body awareness and helps express our emotions outside of more common ways, like writing or painting
By incorporating creative expression activities, libraries can become havens for healing and self-discovery. These initiatives not only provide valuable resources for mental health but also contribute to the broader mission of libraries as community hubs that nurture the holistic development of individuals.
Don’t forget to check out our creative expression in libraries guide for more detailed information on these activities.
