Feel Better, Live Better: The benefits of Tactile Therapy for Mental Wellness
Per The World Health Organization, mental health is a state of mind that “enables people to cope with the stress of life…and contribute to their communities.” However, “at any one time, a diverse set of… factors may… undermine mental health.” This undermining of one’s mental health can lead to anxiety, depression, PTSD, and stress related disorders to name a few. The latest treatment strategies for the management of mental illnesses currently include many cognitive based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, lifestyle modifications, support groups, psychoeducation, and mindfulness/meditation. In this article we will discuss 5 reasons why the inherent qualities of tactile texture may also be a great way to help support mental health. Read on to learn more.
Tactile texture can promote comfort
Whether it's a cozy blanket, comfortable bed, warm fuzzy slippers, or a soft towel incorporating the inherent qualities of tactile comfort into a person's daily life may help support mental health by creating a warm and friendlier environment in which to live. In turn, a more amiable environment may help to solicit moments of joy and happiness within a person's daily life while also encouraging the person to be more present and in the moment.
Tactile texture can be grounding
The tangible quality of tactile texture may help promote a sense of groundedness by existing as a physical object within a person's environment that allows them to feel connected with the environment around them. When grounded a person may feel more emotionally stable, have a greater sense of clarity, and a sense of resilience when managing stress which can also benefit mental health.
Tactile texture can be soothing
Similar to tactile comfort, tactile texture can be very calming and soothing to touch. A person may feel a sense of calm when running their fingers across plush velvet, by touching the delicate surface of silk, or snuggling into a cozy blanket on a very cold night. Doing these things may promote the overall feeling of relaxation. Whereby the feeling of being calm and relaxed may help contribute to the person’s general well-being which in turn may help improve a person’s overall mental health.
Tactile texture can affect overall mood
Tactile texture may affect a person’s overall mood. Have you ever suddenly felt disgusted when stepping onto something sticky, or instantly happy when touching something soft and fuzzy? If so, you were likely experiencing the overall mood altering effects of tactile texture. By being surrounded with textures that promote joy and happiness, a person may be able to affect their overall mood in a similar way.
Tactile texture may promote mindfulness
The final benefit of tactile texture discussed in this article is the promotion of mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully aware and present within the moment by paying attention to thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment without judgment. In total it encourages an individual to observe experiences as they unfold, foster an attitude of acceptance, and curiosity. Discovering new and interesting textures may be a great way to encourage mindfulness in everyday living.
There are many positive ways to influence the state of a person’s mental health by utilizing the many benefits of tactile textures as described above. How likely are you to start exploring the different textures that are present in your life? What qualities of tactile texture do you find to be the most beneficial?
