Expressive Art Therapy Movement Activity: Year of the Wooden Snake
The Year of the Snake: Symbolism and Transformation
From the Desk of Dr. Judith Greer Essex:
The Year of the Snake invites you to release outdated beliefs, fears, and habits that no longer serve you. In this activity, you’ll use movement and reflection to shed these old “skins.”
In Chinese astrology, the Year of the Snake is seen as a time of transformation, wisdom, and mystery. Snakes, by their very nature, embody the concept of shedding old skin, an idea connected to renewal and growth. This cycle of renewal is one of the key aspects of the Snake, and it directly connects to the themes of letting go of the past and embracing change.
When you reflect on the idea of shedding skin, think of it as a time of personal reinvention. Just as a snake discards its old skin to make room for a new, fresh layer, humans also have the capacity to shed outdated beliefs, habits, and fears that have accumulated over time.
In this activity you will have a physical release through movement, engage in reflection and writing, and embrace change with intention.
Activity: Shedding Old Beliefs & Habits in the Year of the Wooden Snake
Begin with Movement:
- Stand up and take a moment to get comfortable.
- Start shaking, wiggling, wriggling, and even writhe in a way that feels natural. This doesn’t need to be fast or intense—let it flow at your own pace.
- Focus on the sensation of movement. Notice any emotions or thoughts that arise as you do this.
Continue as Long as It Feels Right:
- Keep moving until it feels good. The goal is to enjoy the process, not rush through it.
- If you feel like pausing, feel free to stop and take a break.
Write or Draw:
- After some movement, take a moment to write or draw anything that comes to mind. Maybe it’s a snake or another image that represents shedding for you.
- Let your creativity flow freely without judgment.
Flow into Graceful, Snake-like Movement:
- Transition into a more graceful, undulating movement, as if you’re embodying the fluidity of a snake.
- Allow your spine, arms, head, and neck to move in harmony. This can be a slow, wave-like movement, similar to how a snake slithers.
- If it feels comfortable, get on the floor to make the movement feel more natural and grounded.
Reflect and Write:
- After the movement, sit down and reflect on the things you want to shed—old fears, beliefs, prejudices, or habits.
- Write about these things as if they are already gone. For example: “I feel so good without my fear of…” or “I am free from the belief that…”
- Allow the act of writing to feel as if you are releasing these burdens.
Embrace the Regeneration:
- Finish by taking a moment to acknowledge the regeneration and renewal the snake symbolizes. You’ve shed the old skin, making room for the new.
This is a flexible activity, so feel free to adapt it to your needs and pace. The idea is to embrace movement and introspection as a way to shed outdated parts of yourself, leaving room for new growth.
My little painting from the Illuminated Journal-
“I leave my old skins on the floor as I hurry out the door. Today is a beautiful day…I want to go and play!”
Interested in more Expressive Arts Activities? Join us at an Intro Weekend!
