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Dream Analysis
Have you ever wondered what your dreams mean? And what they have to do with individuation? And what the word 'individuation' means? We probably should have started with that last question first. Individuation is a word Carl Jung used to essentially describe the becoming of ones whole self in a way that is very different from another becoming their whole self. It is different from individualisation, which is more about the expression of that self. Most people, mind you, don't
Meli Swan
Jun 26 min read


To Deliberately Paint, or Accidentally Paint - that is the question ...
The conscious mind and the subconscious mind work very differently from one another. The conscious mind tends to work more linearly, logically, analysing things through verbal language and it processes things very sequentially. The subconscious mind, on the other hand, tends more toward intuition, imagery, creativity and storing memory. It is more holistic in its processing, always including the body in its outworkings. In our colonial cultures, we tend to have historically g
Meli Swan
May 14 min read


Mindfulness.
Everyone has heard the word ‘mindfulness’ thrown around. Especially in the early 2000’s. ‘Mindful’ means literally ‘full of the mind’. Mindfulness in an art therapy context means focusing so hard on something that your thoughts are completely taken up by it. Some of your thoughts are completely blocked out! Without effort! Simply because you are so focused on the thing in front of you. This can be a wonderful tool for an art therapist to use in a session, especially when some
Meli Swan
Mar 313 min read


What is art therapy anyway?
Ever wondered what art therapy actually is — beyond the stereotypes? In this honest and relatable reflection, I share a real conversation that captures the confusion (and curiosity) many people have. A conversation I’ve had more than once… Male human: “So you’re an art teacher?” Me: “No, I’m an art therapist.” Male human: “So, you get paid to paint pretty pictures with people who are sad?” Me: “Well, sometimes, if that’s what they need. But basically, I teach people how to
Meli Swan
Mar 315 min read
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