Researcher: Roxanne Ramlucken obtained a Master’s degree with distinction in Research Psychology from the University of the Witwatersrand. Her work focuses on gender-based violence (GBV), with interest in the experiences of both survivors and women working in the GBV field. Her interest in this area is informed by both personal experiences and her volunteer work at a registered non-governmental organisation, The Advice Desk for the Abused, in Durban. June, 2023 What Is The St

History… Long before “art therapy” was a clinical term, creative expression was central to healing in many cultures: Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Native Americans used art, music, and drama in ceremonies to restore emotional and spiritual balance. In South Africa and across the continent, indigenous artistic traditions such as sculpture, beadwork, and storytelling have historically been used for community connection and spiritual healing. In the US, Margaret Naumburg develo

Mechanisms… When you inhale a scent, the odor molecules travel directly to the limbic system of the brain, which includes the amygdala (emotion center) and hippocampus (memory center), bypassing the usual sensory processing pathways. This direct link explains why smells can trigger immediate and intense emotional responses and vivid autobiographical memories (the “Proust effect”). Olfactory receptors also exist in skin cells and can respond to scents. Did You Know? Scents can

What We Know… Being screen-free is crucial for better mental/physical health, deeper relationships, and cognitive health by reducing anxiety, improving sleep/focus, fostering creativity, and encouraging real-world skills like empathy, problem-solving, and physical activity, which screens often hinder. It balances the brain’s dopamine system, combating addiction, and helps develop emotional regulation and stronger bonds through face-to-face interactions. In fact, Dr. Sahib Kha

Psychedelic therapy uses psychedelic substances, like psilocybin (found in ‘shrooms’), MDMA, or LSD, in a therapeutic setting to treat various mental health conditions. This approach combines traditional psychotherapy with the altered states of consciousness induced by these substances, aiming to facilitate breakthroughs and insights that can lead to healing. Benefits: Reduced anxiety and depression. Enhanced emotional processing through introspection and emotional release -