"Healing Across the Lines: Neurographics in Shelter."
The article tells about the introduction of neurography - a new method of art therapy - into the charts for former palitating students. It is described how the daily sessions help participants to improve their traumatic experience.
‘Healing Through Lines: Neurography in the Shelter’.
The quiet room of the shelter for political prisoners has an unusual atmosphere. Here, away from the bars and wardens, former prisoners of conscience and volunteers come together to immerse themselves in the world of neurography, a unique art therapy method.
‘Neurography helps us to express what is difficult to put into words,’ says Olga, a former political prisoner, ’We start with chaotic lines reflecting our emotions and experiences. Then we transform them into harmonious shapes. This symbolises the transformation of our inner world.’
Shelter neurography classes are held weekly. Participants create abstract drawings following a certain algorithm. This process helps to visualise inner feelings and transform negative experiences.
‘Neurographics allows a person to regain control over their life,’ explains Tatiana, a neurographics instructor, ’Many of them have gone through traumatic experiences of imprisonment. Here, political prisoners learn how to express their emotions in a safe way.’
For the volunteers, these sessions also have a therapeutic effect:
- ‘It helps to cope with emotional burnout,’ admits Anastasia, a Shelter volunteer, ‘We deal with difficult stories on a daily basis. Neurographics allows us to ‘reboot’ and restore our inner resources.’
Tatiana, who leads the class, explains the therapeutic effect: ‘Neurographics activates both hemispheres of the brain. It helps to integrate traumatic experiences, reduce anxiety and depression. It helps people to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.’
Research shows that art therapy, including neurography, can significantly reduce anxiety and depression. For political prisoners who have experienced isolation and psychological pressure, this is particularly important. Neurographics at Shelter is more than just art therapy. It is a path to healing, a way to gain a new perspective on life and find inner resources to overcome past traumas. In these whimsical lines and shapes, hope for a better future is born.