Pottery
Clay Therapy
Clay Therapy is a wonderful way for you to relive the days of childhood while you redevelop your fine motor skills. Through the motions of grasping and molding clay, particpants of clay therapy can create a wide variety of figures and objects without excessive strain on the body. Expression can get more difficult with Parkinson's patients, but pariticpation in clay making can provide a productive medium for you to put your feelings and thoughts into reality. Clay therapy is also a great way to form a bond within a community of like-minded people. Whether you are artistically inclined, or just want to have a good time, clay therapy is the best way to remember old memories and form new ones.
Research and Support
Effectiveness of Clay Therapy
01
Sensorimotor Development
Clay therapy is both a physical and sensorimotor outlet for patients with Parkinson's Disease. It allows individuals to physically manipulate clay which can reduce symptoms of tremor and stiffness. A Korean based study showed that this form of art therapy significantly improved hand dexterity in patients with PD.
02
Emotional Wellbeing
Clay therapy also provides an emotional outlet for patients. Including clay therapy, art therapy allows expression of ideas, thoughts, and emotions through creation of constructs. The satisfaction of completing art creations generates a positive emotional response.
03
Easy Accessiblity
Even if you are not interested in art, clay therapy is an activity that all can do. One study showed that all participants, even those who are not as enthusiastic about art, still enjoyed clay therapy.
04
Community
Making clay sculptures with other members of the class can build a sense of companionship between patients. The sharing of experiences and activities can create new bonds, and improve overall development of wellbeing.
Resources
Here are some resources for finding Parkinson Disease-targeted music therapy. We include a resource in the Gainesville area and several available nationwide.
Gainesville
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Studio Tm Ceramics
Online
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Clay Share
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Clay Therapy
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Sensorimotor Art Therapy
