Emotion Regulation with Mindful Arts Activities Using a Personalized Self-Soothing Kit

ABSTRACT

Contrary to the occupational therapy tradition, there is little current research on harmonizing expressive doing with contemporary occupational therapy practice. This phenomenological multiple case study explored an integrated application of mindfulness, creative activity, and sensory modulation for adult mental health services users by making and using personalized self-soothing kits. The results showed significant improvements in arousal regulation, positive changes in emotion regulation and mixed results for mood regulation. Progress in participation in present roles and an increased focus on future productivity goals were also among the outcomes reported. The theoretical and clinical implications of the findings are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Expressive arts
• self-regulation
• integrative practice
• evidence-based
• creative media

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to express their deep gratitude for the generous participation of six graceful, honest, and diligent research participants, the SDHB Mental Health and Addictions community, and the Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design Master of Arts in Arts Therapy program community, who contributed to the realization of this research project.