FINDING FOCUS THROUGH ART
Practitioners say that in an increasingly fast-paced world, the deliberate, unhurried strokes of ink on paper offer a rare chance to slow down.
They believe the benefits of calligraphy and brush painting extend well beyond artistic expression.
The process demands full concentration, said Chinese brush painting teacher Chong Buck Tee.
“When you learn Chinese painting, such as drawing horses, it can help stabilise our mood, as well as lower our stress and anxiety levels because we are so focused on our drawings,” he added.
“In the long run, it improves our well-being.”
Chinese calligraphy teacher Tan Lee Chin, a former headmistress, said the art form is particularly well suited for seniors.
“In order to practise the art, you need to stay calm,” said Tan, who now teaches other senior citizens at a recreational club in Kuala Lumpur.
“If you are frantic, there is no way you can practice calligraphy. So if you can spare an hour, empty your mind and focus whole heartedly on calligraphy, it’s very beneficial to your health,” she added.
Beyond mental clarity, Tan highlighted the physical element involved.
“When we move our brush, we are using strength from our entire body and not just from our hand and wrist. The flow of the energy is from the whole body,” she said.
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/asia/chinese-new-year-malaysia-calligraphy-brush-painting-seniors-art-5933991
