The Healing Power of Online Crone Art Therapy Group Guelph
In ancient times, the word “Crone” held a reverence, signifying wisdom and respect. Derived from the word “crown,” it represented the honor bestowed upon older women who were valued for their experience and knowledge. The term “hag” traces back to “hagia,” as in the temple called Hagia Sophia, meaning divine wisdom. However, the patriarchy twisted these words to imply someone is an evil witch, to suppress older women’s power and voice, reinforcing male dominance. Despite these efforts, many cultures continue to revere their wise women, recognizing their invaluable contributions and insight.
Challenges Faced by Mature Women Today
In our contemporary world, older women encounter numerous challenges. They are often dismissed and disrespected, with societal norms placing undue emphasis on youthful appearance – a standard not imposed on men. As they transition through life stages such as children leaving home and retirement, mature women grapple with significant changes. Many older women feel invisible in a society that values not looking one’s age, which is a superficial measure that ignores the true depth and substance of women’s lives. This societal pressure can contribute to a decline in both physical and mental health, often leading to diminished self-esteem.
Loneliness becomes a pervasive issue as connections change and long-held relationships may drift apart. Isolation can be exacerbated by health problems that impact travel and social interactions. Mature women face mental health struggles similar to those encountered by people of all ages, including stress, grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, and the need to process negative life events. The online crone art therapy group Guelph seeks to address these issues, offering a supportive community where their experiences and wisdom are acknowledged and celebrated.
Carl Jung and the Crone Archetype
Renowned psychologist Carl Jung introduced the concept of archetypes, universal symbols and themes embedded within the collective unconscious. Archetypes are within us, come to us in dreams. One such archetype is the Crone or Wise Mother, present in both men and women. Jung said the wise mother archetype embodies the qualities of wisdom, guidance, and nurturing and is witnessed in nature, such as the moon and bodies of water for example.
The crone archetype’s characteristics include being wise, assured, decisive, and brave. These are the types of women that men burned at the stake for having strong opinions. They are no longer the meek maiden type; they are powerful and do not suffer fools lightly. The online crone art therapy group Guelph explores these archetypes, helping participants connect with their inner wise mother through reviewing their lived experiences, the divine feminine, and their creativity.
The Benefits of Art Therapy and the Online Crone Art Therapy Group
Art therapy is a powerful form of psychotherapy that harnesses the creative process to foster emotional, mental, and spiritual healing. It allows individuals to express their experiences and emotions, offering relief from stress and a path to healing and self-discovery. Regardless of artistic skill, anyone can benefit from art therapy by simply being open to engaging in artistic activities.Â
Through activities such as painting, drawing, collage or sculpting, individuals can express their inner thoughts and feelings, which may be difficult to articulate verbally. The online crone art therapy group Guelph provides a safe and nurturing environment for older women to engage in art therapy, promoting self-discovery, empowerment, and community bonding. Participants gain not only artistic skills but also resilience and a renewed sense of purpose, embracing their identity as wise women.
Details of the Online Crone Art Therapy Group Guelph
WHO: This is an online group made up of six mature women who are menopausal and beyond. Each participant is screened to ensure that they are a fit for the group and it suits their needs. Most wise women who join the group are spiritual women who desire a positive, supportive environment to be creative and to delve in to the divine feminine.
WHAT IS THE STRUCTURE OF THE GROUP? The first gathering online, we have an introduction where each participant shares their journey. Each week we then do a check in from the week before and then we immerse ourselves in a profound video exploring the sacred crone archetype. This venerable symbol of wisdom and transformation guides our exploration of the sacred feminine within. The art therapist then unveils the weekly art exercise, setting the stage for a 40-minute creative exploration. Each participant then makes their creation, expressing their own experiences, feelings and divine feminine wisdom within. Following this, we come together in a circle of sharing, where each person reveals the meaning behind their art. The art therapist’s insightful questions and the group’s enriching discussions foster a deeper connection to our inner wise mother and the collective feminine spirit. The art is not judged on its aesthetics but simply for free expression, thus no artistic skill is required.
WHATS REQUIRED? A computer with speakers and audio enabled, a stable internet connection and the zoom app is required. A private workspace with art supplies handy. These supplies may be pencils, paints, pastels, collage material, air dry clay or markers. Clients get to choose the supplies they work with.
WHEN: This group runs four weeks in a row. Dates vary, please click here to learn more.
DETAILS OF THE FOUR WEEKS OF THE ONLINE CRONE ART THERAPY GROUP:
WEEK ONE: participants will embark on a sacred journey, learning about the crone archetype. They will tap in to the profound, divine collective feminine wisdom and express it through art therapy.
WEEK TWO:Â Participants are invited to delve deeper into their life experiences and values that have shaped their unique, soulful selves. This week provides an empowering opportunity to use art-making as a means to celebrate and honor the wisdom that forms the foundation of their identity.Â
WEEK THREE: Learn how to embrace your personal power and authenticity, celebrating the unique wisdom of your inner wise mother through vibrant and expressive art-making.
WEEK FOUR:
Reflect on how to cultivate a life that fully embodies the wisdom and strength of your inner wise mother. Through the power of art, you can unlock personal insights and inspiration, empowering you to live a life that is true to your deepest values and celebrates your unique feminine spirit.
What are the Next Steps to Join The Online Crone Art Therapy Group
Fill in the contact information below.
The art therapist will reach out to you.Â
Set up a zoom chat to see if the group is a good fit for your needs.
Once you have determine the group is a good fit, the art therapist will send consent forms.
Complete the consent forms and secure your reservation by making the payment.
