Tattoos, piercings, henna, body paint, scarification, branding, temporary tattoos, bling, shimmer dust…why do people indulge in body art? Self-expression is a key component of a healthy state of mind. When we take an opportunity to express ourselves with our voices, we feel that we are making a contribution to the situation, be that a problem or a celebration.
There is a wonderful article from Psychology Today by Judith E. Glaser about the value of self-expression in our everyday lives at a variety of ages. We’re helping, making a difference, and that makes us feel valued. We use the arts to further self-expression creatively, and to strengthen our self-worth and confidence with writing, dancing, sculpting, painting, music and more. If it’s art, it helps!
Body art is another way to promote self-expression. Whether permanent or temporary, body art provides representation of our inner self, something that we can choose to display proudly, or demurely, or keep hidden just for our own gratification.
A popular way to use body art is in celebration. It’s a common occurrence for people to get tattoos to mark milestone birthdays or the birth of a child. Indian culture puts henna to good use for all manner of celebrations, but especially weddings and pregnancy. Brides and pregnant mothers are adorned with what looks like miles of intricate artistry designed to strengthen and support them during these important life changes. The next time you’re celebrating a success or landmark moment, pump up those joyful feelings with henna!
There are moments in life where we have overcome a huge obstacle and never want to forget how strong we are and that we can persevere. So many military veterans bear tattoos in recognition of their 
service, both to their nations and their fellow soldiers. Those who beat cancer and other disease may be proud to wear evidence of their own choosing of their success, either permanently or temporarily. Sometimes you just need to feel beautiful, which explains the abundance of cosmetic temporary procedures like eyelash extensions and microblading. It helps to see a representation of where you’ve been and how you’ve come so far.
Using body art to express freedom, to live out loud, is a wonderful thing! Maybe your career choice doesn’t support dying your hair pink, but you can get a tattoo on your shoulder. Maybe your career choice totally supports pink hair and you change your hair colour every other month! Maybe the permanence of tattoos and piercings isn’t your style, but hair dye, henna tattoos, makeup, nail polish, and jewelry totally can be. Maybe you just do it all because you can, or because you FINALLY can! And that view in the mirror, or the glimpse of the design on your wrist as you go about your day sparks confidence. And it feels so good.
Equally important to the power of positivity is body art to express grief and remorse. Memorial applications are often symbolic and can be represented in tattoo, henna, or jewelry. Whether temporary or permanent, the expression of these emotions – even if you’re the only one who truly knows what they mean – may help provide closure, and peace of mind.
Henna artistry is a lot of fun and a great way to find out whether you’re ready for a tattoo, or just in preparation of your vacation. Book a party for you and your friends! Whatever your reason, call (519) 741 7007 to book Henna4You!