Twirling with Turmeric: Exploring the Therapeutic Power of Colour, Movement, and Sensory-rich Play.

If someone was to tell you to go to your local supermarket, purchase a colourful ground-up root, and throw it around your local park because it is good for you, you would likely question their judgment. And fairly, too. On the surface, it does sound odd, and I’m sure it looked odd too when a friend and I explored this activity last weekend. 

"Color is the fruit of life." - Guillaume Apollinaire.

Playing with colour and movement is a great way to communicate thoughts and feelings that may be difficult to articulate verbally. It allows for a deeper exploration and understanding of your inner world. It is also a great way to connect with your body and how it explores its space in the outside world. 

Not only is this activity good for creative exploration, it is also good for your well-being! Indulging in sensory-rich activities such as playing with rich colours, inhaling the smell of freshly cut grass, or feeling the soft breeze hold your arms as you stretch them towards the sky, can activate neural pathways in the brain. This sensory stimulation can enhance cognitive function, improve focus, and increase sensory awareness. Mindfulness supports stress reduction and alleviates depression and anxiety.

So, why don’t you pop down to the shops and find some inspiration on the herbs and spices rack? Or perhaps take a moment to hold on to that beautiful purple tinge that goes down the sink after you boil red cabbage. Inspiration is everywhere.