As mentioned in a previous post, “Things to Come.” I hope to add some flavor to the blog by including contributing editorials and pieces that hopefully add spice to the recipe. The first offering came from James Phoenix, who offered an idea that struck a chord with me, as it was a subject close to my heart, as someone with my tattoo history and a family with its share of tattoo stories as artists and enthusiasts. Before posting, I’d like to thank James for his time, contribution, and remarkable enthusiasm.
Exploring the Psychological and Emotional Impact of Tattoos
With tattoos gaining popularity in recent times, it’s no surprise that they’ve garnered significant attention among researchers and psychologists to understand their role in human lives.
Historically, tattoos were known to hold personal meaning, represent various cultural nuances, and be part of religious practices. However, what does it mean to get a tattoo in the modern world?
This article explores the connection between tattoos and the human mind and the positive impact this artistic expression has on multiple lives.
Body Modification And Mental Health
Artistic ways of self-expression have been intertwined with body modifications like tattoos and piercings for centuries. But did you know that they may also impact mental health?
The human psyche involves many woven stories of self-identity, personal experiences, and culture, and body modifications serve as a strong form of visually communicating the emotions and values specific to every individual. While the psychology behind getting tattoos and piercings is complex, they certainly hold symbolic meaning.
So, whether someone gets an intricate full-sleeve tattoo or adorns stretched earlobes with various ear weight styles, it can hold personal, spiritual, and emotional meaning to them.
Positive Impact Of Tattoos Mental Health
While there are so many types of body modifications, tattoos are among the most popular, especially in this modern era, especially because of their newfound recognition as a form of ink therapy that symbolizes the transformative process of getting tattooed.
These are the positive influences of this process:
1. Expressing Oneself
Your inner thoughts, personal stories, and feelings need to be heard. There may be instances where someone struggles to communicate verbally their point of view, and that’s when tattoos become a unique way of expressing their emotions without using any words. Since it provides an indirect way to communicate your own narrative, it leads to a feeling of liberation and instills a sense of relief.
2. Self Acceptance
Many of us struggle with accepting ourselves, and we use tattoos as a way to love ourselves and find peace within. Whether you get a tattoo that reflects personal growth, signifies a struggle you’ve overcome, or marks a major milestone in your life, it’s all part of your identity, and embracing it in the form of a tattoo is a constant reminder and a boost to your self-esteem.
3. Mindfulness
Several individuals use the process of tattooing as a healing ritual to learn and push their spiritual boundaries. Getting tattooed requires a lot of patience and perseverance because it’s a lengthy process that involves enduring pain and nervousness. Being present in the moment and teaching your body tolerance is a form of practicing mindfulness, resilience, and strength.
4. Connection To Community
Once you start getting tattoos, you innately become part of the tattoo community, which surprisingly is quite close-knit and has a strong sense of belonging. It’s an opportunity to build connections, speak your truth, and realize you’re not alone. This breaks down self-isolating habits that leave many feeling lonely as they continue with mental health struggles.
5. Scar Transformation
People who have visible scars struggle with body image issues and self-confidence. Tattoos offer a way for these individuals to turn their flaws into beautiful works of art. Getting scars tattooed doesn’t just help their sense of self but also helps them heal emotionally as they positively redefine their relationship with these imperfections.
Parting Thoughts
While some get tattoos for aesthetic appeal, using the human body as a canvas has a more powerful meaning to others. It can be an excellent tool for self-expression and discovery that helps you unlock your healing journey so you can evolve and grow as a person.
James Phoenix (Author and Contributing Editor)
Photogeek Blog 