Building Community Through Art

ImmaCare has partnered with Meg Lenzzo, Founder and Executive Director of Shine Your Light CT to provide healing experiences for residents with a goal to lower stress levels, encourage creative thinking, boost self-esteem, and build stronger relationships within the community.

Healing experiences offered include, but are not limited to, painting, mindfulness moments and meditation, sound healing, African Drum Circles, craft and specialty art workshops, and meal sharing.

According to CTData.org, over the past few years, Covid-19 has caused financial, physical and mental distress among the residents of Connecticut and the rest of the world. Recent research has found that anxiety levels, depression and overall mental health have deteriorated during the pandemic, with certain demographics of our population experiencing elevated risk. In addition, CTData.org reported:

• 62 percent of CT residents earning less than $15k reported feeling at least a bit anxious.
• 44percent of respondents earning less than $15k reported depression in the past two weeks.
• More than 1 in 3 adults experienced at least one day of poor mental health in the past 3 days.

Shine Your Light’s mission is to provide healing experiences to those who are most in need through the transformative power of art, yoga and diverse forms of expression. Programs and services empower individuals and communities to freely express themselves, process their emotions and enhance their coping skills, particularly when faced with adversity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Many of us are facing challenges that can be stressful, overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Public health actions, such as physical distancing, can make us feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. After a traumatic event, people may have strong and lingering reactions. Learning healthy ways to cope and getting the right care and support can help reduce stressful feelings and symptoms.”

Recently, residents of ImmaCare’s Casa de Francisco had the opportunity to paint terra-cotta pots. This activity helped clients to focus on the present moment and ignite creative ideas and problem-solving skills, all while enjoying a therapeutic activity. Residents left feeling a sense of accomplishment and mental clarity. Creating and expressing gives people a break from usual thoughts, and trains our brains to concentrate on details and pay more attention to our environment.

Another recent activity was a Cardmaking Workshop, which residents found to be quite relaxing. They were extremely proud of their final products and excited to share their cards with loved ones. Some participants said the activities brighten up their days.

Casa de Francisco Property Manager Melvya Armstrong said, “These activities are important for creating a sense of community as well as serving as an outlet for individuals to relax and be creative. ImmaCare is grateful to Meg and Shine Your Light, and happy to offer these opportunities for our clients and hopes that, as time goes on, more and more individuals participate.”