Meet Michelle, who is currently battling illness and indulges in healing in the arts on her road to recovery.
Michelle is involved with the ENGL 328 class taught by Dr. Martin where her class engulfs on healing using poetry, painting, drawing, movement, and other forms of expressive arts.
I had the privilege to take this course this semester and meet Michelle. For privacy purposes I am nto including pictures of Michelle, but i high encourage you all to read about her experience with healing in the arts and trying it out for yourselves!
Full Name: Edele Michelle Rodriguez
Where are you from?
Well, i grew up kind of all over. I went back and forth from Europe to America but right now I live in Rock Hill, SC.
What is a normal day like for you?
Since I have become ill my day consists of trying to work hard with nutrition. Juicing, prepping and exercise are the bulk of my week but mostly I just try and be mindful all throughout the day and bear living each day one at a time. Chemo is part of my day sometimes so I just try and take it easy while still trying to be mindful of my day as a process. I think everyone should try thinking about being present in each day and live in the moment.
How did you get into healing in the arts?
A former ballet teacher of mine suggested I get in touch with Mary Martin at Winthrop and get to know her. We then decided that I would be a subject to her students to help demonstrate and teach about how healing in the arts can affect people. She used to do home visits with me but now that I can move around I come to the classroom during the semester a few times.
What is your definition of healing in the arts?
I find the arts as a whole healing for anyone, whether you are the participant or the audience. Whatever form comes through you, that process heals because of the way you make yourself involved. It’s an identifier and unifier.
What is your favorite form of healing using art?
The one that I enjoy the most is movement. It’s such a primal thing, no words just feeling. I love just letting go. I get the most out of writing though. It gives solidity and is more hard hitting than movement. You can just say what you want to say and how you feel.
What advice do you have for someone who can’t seem to let loose and try healing in the arts?
Oh my goodness. The best thing you can do in your healing journey is to just let go. Stop thinking. Let the feeling just come through you. Drop your ego and being present in your motions helps tell you what you are supposed to do and how you should feel. Just dance, relax, breathe, and let it happen.