SELF-DISCOVERY THROUGH THE POWER OF THERAPEUTIC-ARTS

Facilitating art workshops for people with disabilities, co-founding the Women in Arts collective, or designing a holistic wellness programme for COMO Shambhala, Jolie Michelle Ow is passionate about expression and self-discovery. Meet our mindfulness-based coach in movement and arts as she shares her own journey of liberation.

On therapeutic arts

Therapeutic arts (mindfulness-based movement and art) help participants explore sensations in the body, discover inner values, and understand behavioural patterns through the physical, mental and emotional states.

It is a journey that enables one to create and connect to the present by focusing on the process rather than the outcome.

On her introduction to therapeutic art

Growing up, I excelled in the arts and felt spiritually connected. I was also interested in charities and welfare communities, and started volunteering at Very Special Arts Singapore (now called ARTDIS) for special-needs adults upon entering the corporate world. 

The class was far away from where I live, but I was inspired to continue learning and teaching.

I also attended classes with Caroline Essame, my mentor and the mother of art therapy in Singapore. Caroline also supported my work and the founding of my company. 

The late Sir Ken Robinson's essay “School Kills Creativity” delves into how a traditional rote model stifles imagination and innovation. The arts can strengthen personal lives while creating effect and culture in our environment. 

That was my motivation to pursue a career in the arts.

On incorporating arts into yoga and mindfulness

A trip to India during a break from work allowed me to experience how I could bridge the benefits of movement art and mindfulness. 

I applied the learnings in my signature Movement Art Mindfulness programme. The programme received much encouragement and positive feedback, and I started facilitating retreats in Sri Lanka and Greece. 

My integrated and holistic approach helps find the root causes of my clients’s stress and transform themselves through awareness.

On how therapeutic arts engage children and adults

The exercises for children and adults engage the mind, body, and heart's physical, mental and emotional state. Regardless of age, I work with my clients in an open and structured manner. I build on consistency in their practice that is applicable off the mat and back in their home, school, or workspace.

On why everyone should try therapeutic art

A client does not have to be slender, fit, creative, or serene. It is all about knowing the brain's creative possibilities, training the body and mind to be present and open, and using these tools to positively impact where they want their attention and energy to be placed.

We all want to be happy. Therefore, we must establish our inner balance and sense of belonging, and become more creative and adaptive to shift viewpoints under challenging circumstances. 

Healing through the arts is a powerful medium of understanding our physical, mental, and emotional state.

The Movement Art Mindfulness programme helps understand the reasons and effects of my clients’ problem and get to the base of applying more awareness in their entire well-being.

“On Wellness” is a regular series featuring our renowned team of practitioners. At COMO Shambhala, our focus on holistic wellness blends contemporary science with ancient healing. Learn more about our programmes and make transformational shifts today.