Clay:
to play
to create
to reflect
to release
Rooted in over twenty years of sculptural practice and informed by recent developments in neuroaesthetic research, the First Hand Method™ offers one-to-one sessions designed to stimulate neuroplasticity, self-awareness, creativity, flow-state and improved well-being.
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Clay is formed over a millennia through weathering and sedimental land shifts and like the landscape itself is very much alive, containing mineral elements including magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and the serotonin-boosting Mycobacterium vaccae which has proven clinically effective in treating a range of conditions including anxiety, depression, and brain-fog.
Recent advances in neuroscience have opened up exciting possibilities linking haptic material engagement to the forming of new synapses in the brain. Our hands are connected through our spinal cord to our libido to the central nervous system, and consequently to the survival instinct that will always aim to rebalance, heal and live.
The clay/hand/ brain connection engages our cognitive functions and was fundamental in human evolutionary development. As we navigate this current digital age we increasingly lose this essential connection. This contributes to an increasing rise of anxiety disorders and anti-depressant prescribing currently at an all-time high.
This primal hand-brain-body connection is vital for the formation of new neural pathways, serotonin production, and rebalancing the nervous system. Regular sessions unfreeze latent creativity particularly in ration to language, spacial awareness and empathy. Self-perception comes into focus and so too are emotions such as grief often characterised as being ‘held’ in the body, many clients report a feeling of transference from their own body to the clay.
Working with clay reaps many benefits however without experienced guidance we tend to allow our rational mind to take the lead. In the First Hand Studio, pressure to make finished objects is removed, this allows more freedom to explore to the process of making.
This Work-in-Progress approach to clay work has been proven to have more meaningful outcomes than more traditional hierarchical teacher/pupil or therapist/client relationship.
“Lovely guidance from Rhona, in a gentle and facilitative way to encourage individual exploration and connection. Like that this felt supported but self guided also. A real sensory experience from the beautiful scents throughout to the use of texture and sound. Highly recommend.”
— Sorcha D.
Clay Meditation Group Sessions
Clay Meditation is a practice that combines the therapeutic benefits of mindfulness with the tactile and creative nature of working with clay. It allows us to ground ourselves in the present moment, fostering a deep connection between our mind and body.
The act of molding clay engages the senses in a way that reconnects us with the physicality of the present moment. We become more aware of the sensations on our fingertips, the weight of our hands, and the grounding nature of the clay beneath our palms. This heightened awareness shifts our focus away from the endless stream of thoughts and worries, allowing us to exist in a state of deep relaxation and acceptance.
The clay becomes a canvas for emotions, allowing you to release pent-up stress and anxiety through the simple act of shaping and reshaping. With each gentle squeeze, you find tangible release, as if the clay absorbs all the negative energy and transforms it into something tangible.
Clay Meditation is a weekly one hour session where you are given a ball of clay to shape while your hands guide the process without judgment or expectation.
Clay meditation has the power to transcend language, culture, and backgrounds. Whether you are an artist, a stressed professional, a parent seeking solace, or someone simply yearning for stillness, this practice can provide a grounding sanctuary.
Clay Meditations will commence in May 2024
The Glasgow Sculpture Studios (housed at The Whisky Bond)
Max spaces: 10-12
Cost per session: £15
or email:
rhona@yellow-arrow.com to reserve slot.
BOOK HERE
“I haven’t felt so relaxed in a long while and can still feel my brain churning over the process. Rhona was so kind and quietly encouraging throughout. Learning that your initiative making techniques marry up to the neuroscience behind it all is just mind-blowing. Interested to see what comes up over the next few days. Highly recommend booking a session.”
— Lorraine H.
“Just had another amazing clay session at First Hand Studio. Five Star experience”
— Gary G.
'‘It was really powerful and enjoyable in equal measure. Rhona was so welcoming and guided me through the whole process. I has no idea what to expect - so go with an open mind and just go with it! It was really good. Highly recommend to anyone who feels stuck or needs a little direction in their lives or to reconnect with yourself an FUN!”
— Colette B.
“The sessions are so personal and the studio experience gives you the feeling that time is standing still. It’s hard to put into words, but the feelings are very rich. My brain feels squashy and very content”
— Lorraine H. (after 2nd session)
“Rhona possesses an innate capacity to immediately make you feel seen and heard. My first session was remarkable and helped me to reorientate my emotional response to a particularly challenging situation. The clay has been calling me back ever since. This Rumi quote reflects my response to how that session left me feeling: ‘We are all stars wrapped in skin. The light you are seeking has always been within’. "
— Lisa T.
Rhona holds the experience beautifully, facilitating presence, self-regulation and creativity as a process of revealing the unconscious. Very helpful for those of us who get stuck in thoughts!’
— Thom S.