STORIES IN THE SAND
Sand is used in Art Therapy, within a container, to invite a conversation between the left brain, which works with logic and meaning and the right brain, which works with memory, symbol and imagination.
You can work with the sand alone or add symbolic objects to make scenes that tell the story that is just emerging for you.
Sand is a wonderful substance. It is made from ancient rocks and from shells; it comes from both mountain and sea. The combination of sand and water evokes the liminal space in between land and sea where the shore is always being reshaped by the movement of sea. This is like the border between your conscious and unconscious mind.
Sandplay is also very good for integrating changes that have already taken place when you have done significant work with other forms of therapy. You may have been working with complex trauma, PTSD, or an addiction for instance. Sandplay work at this stage will help you feel confident about your next steps. It can also be helpful from time to time when you are coming to terms with major changes brought about by bereavement, divorce, change of location or when you are facing a major life transition.
You might also choose figurines to symbolize qualities you would like to develop in the future! Perhaps you would like to be more of a warrior or a sage… Then again you might also want to describe a situation at home or work in a pictorial way. Doing this will help you see things from another perspective. This kind of work is great for couples and family members trying to come to a common understanding!
