In order to find out more about how people who suffer from depression heal themselves with more natural tools, I asked someone directly who undertakes therapy, as well as tries different methods to relax and heal.
The following questions were being asked:
5 questions for classmate (depression related):
- Have you ever realized that there any colours that you feel connected to and that relax you when you are feeling low?
- Are there any of the following remedies that you use to relax you:
1. Lighting
2. Spaces
3.Nature
4. Sound
5. Touch
6. Visual
7. Sensory activity e.g. drawing, doodling, photography, creating pattern etc
8. Other – please specify
3. How do any of the above remedies relax you? Please describe your experience.
4. Have you tried unconventional approaches to healing in the UK or west, such as ancient nature based sciences (e.g. Feng Shui, Vastu Shastra,…)
5. Do you already try any alternative healing methods for your mental health?
Her answers regarding what colours relax her, she mentioned red and dark blue, which is interesting since red was a colour my participant in my intervention did not find too relaxing. Nevertheless, blue was a successful colour too when I tested it on one person. She finds herself relaxing when using methods, such as visiting spaces, in nature, listening to sound, with touch, visuals and with being creative, such as doodling.
She uses spaces to feel safe and feel like home and likes nature to escape the hectic town.
In terms of touch she mentioned hugs from people she loves, rather than just touching material or objects that can often be satisfying to people, which I originally thought of. In terms of visuals she finds herself being calm when watching a movie and with relaxing sounds on her phone to be more specific.
As a creative she can escape reality too when drawing, doodling and with photography, such as capturing moments with her friends.
Nevertheless, alternative methods were not tried by her yet, such as integrating Feng Shui in her life or going to art therapy.
Evaluation from the interview (via email):
Although I received interesting data regarding colours for healing and creative methods for relaxation, I found the overall responses lacking and realized that I needed to give further probing questions. However, the response also evidenced that people do not consider alternative methods alongside colour and creative strategies for healing.
