You will need:
Paper (stuck down with sticky tape) and something to draw with both hands (E.g. pastels, textas, pens, pencil, paint etc).
Time:
Allocate your own. Recommended for between 3 and 11 minutes.
Useful for:
Emotional integration and regulation, body awareness, brain balancing, reducing stress & anxiety, calming
About Bilateral Drawing
Bilateral drawing is a therapeutic technique that involves using both hands simultaneously to create drawings or patterns. It is commonly used in various therapeutic contexts, including art therapy and trauma recovery.
In bilateral drawing, the individual holds a drawing tool in each hand and coordinates their movements to create symmetrical or coordinated patterns. This technique engages both hemispheres of the brain, promoting integration and communication between the left and right brain hemispheres.
By using both hands, bilateral drawing helps to activate bilateral stimulation, which can have a calming effect on the nervous system. It promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety, and enhances overall emotional well-being. The rhythmic and repetitive movements involved in bilateral drawing can also induce a meditative state, allowing individuals to focus their attention and gain a sense of inner peace.
In a therapeutic context, bilateral drawing can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma or are struggling with emotional regulation. Trauma often disrupts the brain’s normal processing and integration of experiences, leading to difficulties in emotional regulation and self-expression. Bilateral drawing can help restore balance and promote healing by activating both sides of the brain and facilitating the integration of traumatic memories or emotions.
Through bilateral drawing, individuals can explore their feelings, thoughts, and memories in a non-verbal and creative way. The process of creating symmetrical or coordinated patterns can provide a sense of control and mastery, empowering individuals to express themselves and regain a sense of agency over their experiences.
Additionally, bilateral drawing can enhance body awareness and sensory integration. The coordinated movements of both hands stimulate proprioceptive and kinesthetic senses, promoting a better connection between the mind and body. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensory processing difficulties or body-focused repetitive behaviours.
Bilateral drawing is a powerful therapeutic tool that combines creativity, mindfulness, and bilateral stimulation to support emotional healing, self-expression, and overall well-being. By engaging both hemispheres of the brain and facilitating communication between them, this technique offers a unique and effective approach to address trauma, promote emotional regulation, and enhance self-awareness.
About Michelle
Hi I’m Michelle Marsh and I am a coach, therapist, Kundalini Yoga teacher and lover of life.
As Mum with ADHD and highly sensitive person who is also a sensation seeker, I understand what it’s like to have your sensitivity running your life instead of aiding it. But I also know from experience that there is light at the end of the tunnel if you are willing to do the work. For myself, I was never afraid of doing the work… I just couldn’t work out WHAT to do! After years of searching, a few burn outs/breakdowns and intense study I became clear on what works and what doesn’t.
But I am not just sharing with you from an experience point of view. I am also teaching from a professional stance as someone who has studied and integrated teachings from biological, psychological and esoteric traditions. These include Creative Therapies, Kundalini Yoga (KRI), Registered Nursing, Clinical Hypnotherapy, Plant Medicine and Natural Living.
I combine my naturally enthusiastic belief in EVERY BODY with my natural empathic talents to provide you with just the right amount of space and direction so you can go deep and resurface anew.
During the time that I am your coach, I will not leave you hanging between sessions as I am available via email to answer questions and provide support as needed.
If you are unsure whether working with me is right for your unique circumstances, please reach out and I will help you to find clarity. I don’t do sales calls so our chat will be very casual and I will refer you in the right direction if I see that Aromanosis is not right for you at this time.
Michelle Marsh
Registered Counsellor (ACA)
Registered Kundalini Yoga Teacher (KRI)
Bsc (Nursing), Grad Dip Creative Therapies, Kundalini Yoga Teacher Cert, Clinical Hypnotherapy Cert