The scent of emotional healing
As younger generations and urbanites face mounting stressors, the olfactory is shifting from consumer demand for commercial brand fragrances to empirically proven therapy, report He Qi and Wang Xin.
"Eco-art therapy basically refers to an ecological approach in art therapy, an innovative method aimed at restoring the deep connection between man and nature through creative activity," explains Yan.
Mindfulness techniques are integrated throughout the exhibition. With green plants, written words and audio instructions spanning the display space, they lead visitors to fully focus on and connect with the present.
Originating from traditional Chinese Zen meditation, mindfulness was systematized and simplified into a practical psychological technique before being reintroduced to China. Yan's team has deeply integrated mindfulness with the 24 solar terms and traditional Chinese medicine to create culturally relevant healing activities.
During Minor Cold (xiao han), participants were guided to paint their true selves on blank masks; in spring and summer, they observed growing plants, smelled them, and expressed their feelings through art.
At a leaf and TCM creation event in December, the aroma of medicinal herbs evoked family memories, allowing participants to release suppressed emotions through their creations.
"We never judge their creations; there is no good or bad, right or wrong. They just need to follow their hearts and express themselves in a totally free, open manner," Yan explains, adding that the power of TCM deeply connects with Chinese people. "It is unique in that it is embedded in our growth and family bonds.
"We can build an alliance with nature and learn from it. Nature never abandons you, and you can always gain nourishment from it, at any time," Yan adds.
