As anxiety grows as a mental health concern, a practical guide for using art to manage stress.
Honest stories of the author’s descent into fear and anxiety, a diagnosis of mental illness, and how he found his way back to a place of stability and health inform this inspiring guidebook for those struggling with anxiety, fear, and panic. Told with vulnerability and compassion, the author’s story and the practices he provides will inspire and encourage readers who face a diagnosis of anxiety and depression. Reflection questions, journaling prompts, and practices will help readers lead a more grounded and centered life.
Hutchison found photography as a daily practice during his recovery helped him to slow down, see the world through from new perspectives, get out in nature, and live more contemplatively. The exercises and reflections included at the end of each chapter encourage readers to try out a variety of creative practices to find their way to a more centered and peaceful life. Practices range from photography, art, music, and meditation to cooking and hiking and help the reader reset their outlook, and find themselves again amidst inner and outer turmoil. Hutchison's guiding voice will show readers they are not alone.
"In The Art of Calm, Roger is refreshingly honest. Although he’s a tremendous artist and illustrator, he refuses to paint a perfect picture of life. Instead, he reminds his readers, we are not alone. He’s vulnerable and real. He doesn’t write as a mental health expert, but as a friend who has found a way through the mess, and learned how to experience calm."
—Traci Rhoades, author of Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost
“What a beautiful blend of personal memoir and effective guidance! This resource reflects the warm spirit of Roger Hutchison, and it generates the same hope and light that his ministry has brought to others. Thank you, Roger, for your courage and your spirit. Your journey, indeed your art, brings calm to the world!”
—The Very Reverend Samuel G. Candler, Dean, The Cathedral of St. Philip, Atlanta, GA
Important Message from the Author
How to Use This Book
Introduction
1. Crash
2. Rescue
3. Fear
4. Hunger
5. Anxiety
6. Stretch
7. Remember
8. Marked
9. Anger
10. Toxic
11. Fallow
12. Walk
13. See
14. Listen
15. Grow
16. Truth
17. Holy
18. Strong
19. Home
20. Forgive
21. Friend
22. Prayer
23. Hope
24. Heal
25. Giving
26. Color
27. Awe
28. Ritual
29. Purpose
30. Connection
31. Beginning
Conclusion. The Art of Calm
Acknowledgments
Recipe for Charlie Browns
Notes
List of Mental Health Resources
List of Children’s Books
