Portrait Analysis for Body Perception & Emotional Self-Reflection
About the Event:
As part of Mental Health Action Day on Thursday, May 15th, nonprofit counseling agency Queer LifeSpace is hosting two interactive workshops focused on body perception and emotional self-reflection through color-coded portrait analysis. This unique intervention method allows participants to explore their relationship with their bodies in a supportive and creative way that also intersects with the arts.
The workshop is designed to help individuals, especially those from LGBTQIA+ communities, reflect on their body image using an integrative approach that combines photography, psychology, and artistic expression. The method incorporates a structured process where participants assign colors (red, blue, yellow) to different body areas based on their emotional associations, fostering self-awareness and healing.
This is a free workshop with limited space — 8 participants in each workshop. All supplies will be provided.
Session 1: 10am to noon
Session 2: 1pm to 3pm
Limited spots available!
Workshop Structure:
1. Introduction & Photography Session:
Each participant will have a full-body portrait taken as a base for self-exploration.
2. Color Coding Exercise:
Participants will assign red (positive body connection), blue (areas seeking emotional reconciliation), and yellow (areas of discomfort) to their portraits.
3. Reflection & Discussion:
Guided group discussion to analyze patterns, emotional experiences, and perceptions related to body image.
4. Take-home Integration:
Participants receive digital versions of their marked portraits for continued self-reflection.
Workshop Goals:
- Promote self-acceptance and emotional awareness related to body perception.
- Encourage creative expression as a tool for mental health and well-being.
- Provide a safe space for dialogue around body image, gender identity, and self-concept.
- Equip participants with tools to continue their self-reflective journey beyond the workshop.
Questions: info@queerlifespace.org
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Introduction to Mental Health Action Day:
Mental Health Action Day was established in 2021 to shift our focus from merely acknowledging mental health challenges to actively taking steps to support mental well-being. Now in its fifth year, the initiative has grown to include over 2,700 partners globally, spanning more than 100 countries. The goal is to inspire individuals, communities, and organizations to take meaningful actions that foster mental health for themselves and those around them. This year’s theme for Mental Health Action Day is Check-In with A.S.K., emphasizing the power of simple, intentional check-ins to support mental health.
2025 Theme: Check-In with A.S.K.
The theme for this year’s Mental Health Action Day, Check-In with A.S.K., encourages people to reach out and offer support in a structured, empathetic way. A.S.K. is a straightforward tool designed to help anyone feel more confident when offering emotional support, especially in moments of distress. It serves as a guide to create connection, understanding, and ongoing care.
What is A.S.K.?
A.S.K. is a simple framework that stands for:
Acknowledge:
Recognize and validate what someone is going through. Acknowledge their feelings to make them feel seen and understood.
Example: “I hear that you're having a hard time. I’m here with you.”
Support:
Ask what they need and offer validation without rushing to fix things. Sometimes, just listening is enough.
Example: “What can I do for you? How can I support you right now?”
Keep-In-Touch:
Emotional support should be ongoing. Checking in regularly shows that care and connection continue beyond the initial conversation.
Example: “I wanted to check in and see how you're doing today.”
By using the A.S.K. framework, we can all become better equipped to offer real, effective support to those around us, especially during times of emotional or mental health struggles. A.S.K. helps to create a culture of care where people feel heard, supported, and encouraged to keep reaching out and connecting.
More information: https://www.mentalhealthaction.network