ARTS & HEALING
THE HEALING POWER OF THE ARTS The global pandemic impacts everyone. Many, to cope with the lockdowns and restrictions, have turned to artistic expression to cope with everything from anxiety to boredom related to the novel corona virus. Why? Research shows that artistic expression has a powerful effect on the psyche. From children to the elderly, nonpharmacological approaches to healing are finding their ways into mainstream thinking.
motivated her to write personal essays and try graphite drawing. She finds the activities relaxing and helps her forget the challenges going around her. In this special section, learn how she and other residents are channeling their inner creativity. Also, we will take a closer look at the healing power of the arts and how some local artists and visionaries are bringing the practice to children and patients across the Treasure Coast.
For Palm City resident, Karen Vaina, the downtime associated with Covid-19
GOOD VIBRATIONS: HEALING WITH STRING MUSIC Accomplished cellist and musician Jacqueline Robbins spent a lifetime performing in orchestras, symphonies and opera houses and realized early on in her career the benefits of music in the healing process. In the 1970s a female artist at the end stages of her life requested Jacqueline play the cello for her to help manage her pain. As she performed for her friend outdoors, Jacqueline witnessed her friend experience calm and pleasure, and noticed she was no longer focused on her chronic pain. From that point on, when on tour Jacqueline would always seek out opportunities to play at hospitals, hospice centers and nursing homes. When her father was at the end of his life, she traveled to Florida to play jazz music for him. “He started singing along and then I would accompany him,” remembered
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Jaqueline. “He was laughing and smiling and not in pain. That’s when I realized that the brain took over wherever it wanted you to go.” Jacqueline became fascinated in neuroscience and how music impacts the brain and emotions and became a certified clinical musician. Now residing in Jensen Beach and having shared her music with hundreds of patients for more than 40 years, she would recommend anyone who wants to do arts therapy whether interactive or just offering a creative gift to do it. She believes firmly, “both the artist and the recipient in the circle of this interaction benefits.” For more information about Jacqueline Robbins’ services as a certified clinical musician visit her website at https://jackierobbins.net/ or email her at Robbins.Jacqueline@gmail. com.
