Creative Connections Arts Therapy Auckland

18/01/2026

Such valuable insights into parenting with self-awareness. Well worth the listen. In this episode of Conversations with Annalisa Barbieri Professor Alessandra Lemma and Annalisa explore what it truly means to be a “good enough mother”. Drawing on the original concept by paediatrician and psychoanalyst Donald Winnicott, they challenge the pressure for perfection and instead focus on what really matters in parenting, and what doesn’t, in ways that might surprise you. The conversation weaves psychoanalytic wisdom with real-world reflections, inviting listeners to reconsider childhood memories, expectations, and the value of ordinary, attentive caregiving over unrealistic ideals.

Society & Culture Podcast · Updated weekly · Have you ever wanted X-ray specs into human behaviour? Then this is the podcast for you. Listen to ‘brilliant, insightful and wise’ agony aunt and journalist Annalisa Barbieri, as she releases exclusi…

07/01/2026

Engaging with the arts can be a powerful way to enhance mental and physical wellbeing in by reducing stress, anxiety, depression and even lowering risks of cognitive decline, while strengthening brain connectivity and fostering joy through meaningful activity; scientific research shows that singing, dancing, drawing, visiting exhibitions and other creative practices benefit mood, immune function and overall health, and offers five practical ways to bring creativity into everyday life, encouraging people to see art not as a luxury but as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

These creative activities support wellbeing through a combination of physiological, emotional, and relational pathways, by engaging the nervous system in states of focus, pleasure, and gentle challenge that help regulate stress hormones and calm the body, while also stimulating brain plasticity and strengthening neural connections linked to memory, mood, and emotional resilience. Making or engaging with art can induce a flow state, drawing attention away from rumination and worry, offering a sense of agency, mastery, and meaning, and allowing feelings to be expressed and processed safely without the pressure of words. Shared creative experiences such as singing, dancing, or attending exhibitions also foster social connection and belonging, which are key protective factors for mental health, while regular creative rituals provide structure, rhythm, and moments of beauty that support emotional regulation and a deeper sense of vitality in everyday life.

Engaging in creativity can reduce depression, improve immunity and delay ageing – all while you’re having fun

25/12/2025

This perspective reminds us that pleasure and celebration are not fickle, superficial, or non-essential. They are not about excess or spending, but about attunement. Noticing and valuing the preciousness of transient beauty and joy, precisely because they are fleeting is one of the keys to living a joyful life. Cultivating pleasure can be an act of care, resistance, and restoration, especially in a world that so often prioritises endurance over enjoyment. Savoring what is gentle, meaningful, and alive in the present moment can be a powerful way of supporting wellbeing, connection, and a sense of being fully human. This article explores the idea of being a "bon vivant", not in the sense of indulgence or extravagance, but as a way of engaging more fully and consciously with life. It suggests that pleasure is not a guilty extra or a reward for productivity, but a vital contributor to psychological wellbeing. The research highlighted in the piece shows that positive emotions help broaden our thinking, strengthen resilience, and deepen our capacity for connection. The practice of savoring, whether through anticipation, presence, or reflection, allows everyday moments of enjoyment to linger and nourish us. So rather than relying on rare, lavish experiences let's emphasise the power of small, frequent pleasures, a good meal shared with others, the beauty of light, texture or nature, a moment of laughter, or the quiet satisfaction of being fully present. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/4000-mondays/202511/how-to-become-a-bon-vivant?utm_source=FacebookPost&utm_medium=FBPost&utm_campaign=FBPost&fbclid=IwY2xjawO6jQ1zcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEehQ419KncVO40T4I0pEGSvTwGElisKzBembp6l_VJwGnqJhH2iHz28Bu_uq0&brid=Y-Bn4tDZ0tJdg21mJ0jI4w

3. Seek out small luxuries, not extravagance.

16/12/2025

A recent international study highlights something many clinicians and creatives already witness in practice, ADHD is not only about difficulties, it is also associated with meaningful psychological strengths. The research found that adults with ADHD were more likely to strongly identify with traits such as creativity, imagination, humour, curiosity, emotional sensitivity, spontaneity and the ability to deeply focus on what feels meaningful to them. When people recognised and actively used their strengths, they reported greater wellbeing, better quality of life and lower levels of anxiety, depression and stress, regardless of whether they had ADHD or not.

From an art therapy perspective, this is an important reminder that creative processes can offer a natural pathway for people with ADHD to access these strengths. Making art allows room for intuitive thinking, sensory engagement, emotional expression and non linear problem solving, all qualities that are often heightened rather than impaired. When therapy moves beyond a deficit focused narrative and supports clients to experience themselves as capable, creative and resourceful, it can strengthen self trust, self compassion and emotional regulation.

This research supports an approach that values difference rather than pathologising it, and encourages therapeutic spaces where neurodivergent ways of thinking and feeling are not only accommodated, but actively welcomed and nurtured.

Adults with ADHD who understand and apply their personal strengths experience better well-being and fewer mental health difficulties.

01/12/2025

24/11/2025

The School of Life offers another gentle reflection on healing and the ways our experiences shape the way we move through the world. It offers a reminder that growth is possible even in the midst of challenge, and that understanding our patterns can open the door to greater clarity and wellbeing.

31/10/2025

Did you know that diving into creative hobbies like painting, dancing, or even gaming can help your brain stay younger and sharper over time? A new study explains how.

Researchers found that people who regularly engage in creative tasks show signs of a “younger” brain, meaning their brain connections work more efficiently than expected for their age.

The key lies in neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections. Engaging in creative challenges strengthens those neural networks, helping to slow down the natural ageing of brain function.

Best of all, you don’t need to be a professional artist or dancer. Even picking up a new hobby and committing to it helps. One follow up found that people who trained on a complex video game saw their brain “age” drop by around three years.

Takeaway: It’s not just about fun. Making time for creativity is actually an investment in your long term brain health. So whether you’ve been longing to try watercolours, get back into dance, or simply pick up a new creative challenge, go for it!

Creative hobbies aren't just fun—they're one of the best things you can do to keep your brain young and sharp, according to a new study.

27/10/2025

I am delighted to share a wonderful resource that I believe can make a real difference for anyone seeking clarity about their study or career path. My talented friend Charmaine Colley, who is also based in Whangaparaoa, has founded Inner Scope Psychometric Testing, a service designed to help people discover their strengths, build confidence, and make choices that align with who they truly are. Whether it is a young person planning their future or someone mid career who feels stuck and wants a more fulfilling direction, this is such a thoughtful and empowering place to begin.
Charmaine has a background in educational psychology and she has worked extensively across schools throughout New Zealand, supporting students, caregivers, and educators through one on one and group programmes, both online and in person. Her rich background in education and psychology means that she uses evidence based approaches to integrate learning, health, and wellbeing. Her practice is inclusive, respectful, and culturally aware, ensuring that every individual feels seen, supported, and valued. Charmaine's work is grounded in the WHO recognised Hauora framework that embraces spiritual, mental, physical, and social wellbeing, which means that the whole person is considered and encouraged to thrive.
What I love most is the genuine care and purpose behind her practice. Every assessment, every conversation, every piece of guidance is shaped with the goal of building resilience, sparking possibility, and creating meaningful outcomes. If you, or someone you know, is ready to explore new pathways with clarity and confidence, I warmly recommend connecting with Charmaine at Inner Scope. It could be the start of a future that feels exciting, aligned, and truly your own.

Inner Scope Psychometric Testing

24/10/2025

My lovely friend Patsy Jordens has just released the new, beautifully designed website for her practice, The Calm Mind Hypnotherapy, and I was struck by how easy it is to read, how caring the tone is, and how much it invites genuine transformation.

Patsy’s motto is “Reframe Your Mind. Redefine Your Life.” Her story of moving through life’s challenges and finding a new way forward are truly inspiring. The whole experience feels warm, safe and professional. Whether you’re looking to shift anxiety, break free from limiting patterns, or create a fresh path forward, this seems like a heart-centred place to explore.

Ready to step into a calmer, more empowered version of yourself? If you’ve ever felt stuck, or simply curious about what hypnotherapy, NLP and life coaching might offer you in a supportive, confidential space, why not reach out for a no-obligation chat? Patsy’s site invites you to take that first gentle step

Discover Mindshift's hypnotherapy and life coaching in Auckland, AUK. Achieve your goals, enhance well-being, and empower your life with our expert guidance.

09/10/2025

Feeling lonely even when you’re around people is more common than you think. This article shows that connection is vital to our health, and it offers practical ways to feel more intertwined with life and others.

Connection isn’t just “seeing friends more often” — it’s about weaving a web of meaning through creativity, small daily interactions, deeper conversations, nature, purpose and spirituality.

Six paths to more connection:

Creativity — Expressing yourself through art, music, or movement helps you feel seen and opens doors to bonding.

Small moments — Casual “weak ties” (a smile at the café, chatting with neighbors) build a sense of belonging.

Deeper talk — Ask genuine questions, mirror tone, stay curious: these cues help conversations resonate.

Nature & wonder — Experiencing awe (sunrises, forests, stars) helps us feel part of something bigger.

Purpose & kindness — Acts of service or volunteering strengthen ties—to others and to your own sense of meaning.

Spiritual or contemplative practices — Meditation, prayer, rituals help quiet the self and open us to connection beyond ourselves.

Ultimately, connection “ripples outward”: when we feel more connected, others feel it to

Experts explain simple things you can do to forge solid social ties and find joy.