There are moments in life when we struggle for words. Or when we feel that something's bothering us, but we can't put our finger on it. For example, when we are grieving, hurt, feeling overwhelmed and stressed. One way to express these feelings is through art therapy.

What is Art Therapy?

Art therapy is a psychodynamic form of therapy. It involves the symbolic representation of psychological content, such as feelings. By expressing these, they can then be overcome. Art therapy is not limited to one specific artistic direction. Painting, music, dance and sculpture can all be used. However, in a clinical context artistic activities are usually used. They are often used to supplement medical treatment and speech therapy in acute crisis situations.

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"When my life energy is blocked, art serves as my way out," says Mag. Petra Krassnitzer. She is a certified holistic art therapist. "I can expel, soften and dissolve what is tense inside me through the means of art. Stress and frustration are released. If my vitality is blocked, then it was too much. I digest too much of something in the artistic process. I discover my original vitality. My original rhythm. My original strength, vitality, sexuality and creativity. I become more playful."

Who is it suitable for?

Art therapy is not about the end product. Rather, it's about the path to find it. Because during the creative process you go through feelings and deal intensively with yourself and healing takes place. Stress finds a form of expression, just like long-buried memories. Even the earliest childhood memories are worked through in art therapy. Basically, the creative process is a bridge between the subconscious and the conscious mind. Art makes visible what we don't have the words for.

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Intense experience at Art Retreats

Art therapy can now be booked in many places. Or you can simply sit down on your own and start painting, you can make pottery and express yourself. However, art retreats promise a particularly intense experience. They offer a protected setting and professional guidance. Such as the art retreats at the Almanac Palais Vienna. They take place in the hotel's atmospheric Heritage Rooms with 10 to 15 participants.

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The first session is titled Self Worth and will take place on February 11, 2024. The course includes a 20-minute break with healthy tea and snacks from the hotel kitchen. All art materials are provided by the hotel. The courses are led by certified holistic art therapist Petra Krassnitzer. After the kick-off event, an art retreat takes place once a month on a Sunday. The themes will change: March will be about Abundance and April will be about Financial Freedom. Registration takes place online.

Almanac Palais Vienna
Parkring 14/16, 1010 Vienna, Austria
Tel: +43 1 2660108
Web: almanachotels.com