Exercises for releasing stress and producing creativity through line!
Neurographic drawing is a method of art-making that takes intuitive mark making and color application as a form of art therapy. It is also an excellent tool for breaking artist block by accessing subconscious processes. This method, known more generally as Neurographica, comes from the work of Russian psychologist Pavel Piskarev.
This drawing technique makes connections between the conscious and subconscious by activating neurons in the brain which send signals to the body (Schukei). It follows a set algorithm with some modifications depending on the kind of session (general stress, creative release or a specific problem).
I would argue that any type of creative process is good for the brain and has significant benefits for a person. A group of researchers found that "engaging in any sort of visual expression results in the reward pathway in the brain being activated, (...) which means that you feel good and it's perceived as a pleasurable experience. (...) This research suggests making art may have benefits for people dealing with health conditions that activate the reward pathways in the brain, like addictive behaviors, eating disorders or mood disorders"(Gharib; Kaimal et al.). An easy way to start a habit of drawing is by keeping a visual journal. Visual journals combine written thoughts with visual imagery. A visual journal is a wonderful place to regularly practice neurographic drawing, which could even be combined with other written and visual notes.
Purpose:
Neurographic drawing aims to relieve stress and anxiety, helps to clear the mind and resolve issues around specific problems, releases creativity (combats creative block due to insecurity, stress or fear), and aids in deep focus or a flow state. There have also been claims of chronic pain relief.
Process:
1. Think of a problem or source of stress and create a 5-10 second scribble or representational drawing.
It is important to release any concerns about how things look; this is about the process not the product! This is an opportunity to let your mind relax and release control. You can choose to let your pen or marker flow across the page and wherever you think you want the line to go, take the opposite action (this method takes practice).
2. Intuitively add shapes and overlapping lines.
Add lines that start on one edge of the paper and end on another. Also add shapes freehand or by using objects near you. Don’t think too hard about finding any specific objects to trace, simply use what is accessible. This step will cross over and interact with your initial drawing, integrating it into the other lines.
3. Round all new intersecting lines and open angles
Soften the hard intersections of lines. If there are any lines that end in the middle of the page continue them to the edge of the paper or until they meet another closed line.
4. Add color
Use your medium of choice to add color. It is most beneficial to have a wide range of colors to choose from. In the same way you released control in making lines, do the same in applying color.
5. Examine your drawing
Take some time to look at your drawing. Consider its’ completeness. If it feels unfinished then you may need to dive back in. If this is the case you can choose to add “force lines” which are are quick wavy lines that go across the full length of the drawing and represent a release of energy. Round any intersections that occur after adding these lines.
You can also take notes on the reverse side of your drawing or on the next page in your journal if you are using a visual journal. These notes can be anything from one word or doodle to reflections on the process or resulting emotions.
1. Think of a problem or source of stress and create a 5-10 second scribble or representational drawing.
2. Intuitively add shapes and overlapping lines.
3. Round all new intersecting lines and open angles
4. Add color
5. Examine your drawing
Vocabulary
Neurons a special cell in the brain that transmits nerve impulses to the body
Neurographica a method of drawing with a specific algorithm that aims to create mind and body connections.
Algorithm a specified set of instructions or steps for solving a problem or accomplishing a task
Visual Journal learn more about visual journals HERE!
Flow state a mental state of being fully immersed and completely present in a process or task
Lesson Plan and Worksheets
Sources
Check out these video on Neurographic Art: More on the process!, Hear from an art therapist about the benefits of Neurographic Art!
Chushikina, K., & Vinarchik, E. (2020). Neurography as a way to deal with stressful situations in learning. https://otik.uk.zcu.cz/bitstream/11025/42143/1/Chushikina.pdf
Gharib, M. (2020, January 11). Feeling artsy? here's how making art helps your brain. NPR. Retrieved March 26, 2022, from https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/01/11/795010044/feeling-artsy-heres-how-making-art-helps-your-brain/
Kaimal, G., Ayaz, H., Herres, J., Dieterich-Hartwell, R., Makwana, B., Kaiser, D. H., & Nasser, J. A. (2017). Functional near-infrared spectroscopy assessment of reward perception based on visual self-expression: Coloring, doodling, and free drawing. The Arts in Psychotherapy, 55, 85-92. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S019745561630171X
Katsman, N. (2017, March 9). Video sneak pick at Basic Algorithm. neurographicstudio. Retrieved March 2022, from https://www.neurographicstudio.com/single-post/2017/03/09/video-sneak-pick-at-basic-algorithm
Schukei, A. (2021, July 30). No drawing skill required! an activity that connects the brain and art. The Art of Education University. Retrieved March 2022, from https://theartofeducation.edu/2021/08/04/how-the-brain-and-art-connect-with-mindfulness
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