Read the Beforeitsnews.com story here. Advertise at Before It's News here.
Profile image
By engaged living
Contributor profile | More stories
Story Views
Now:
Last hour:
Last 24 hours:
Total:

BODY ART & STORYTELLING: Meaningful expressions of individualism

% of readers think this story is Fact. Add your two cents.


This article was published in The Mindful Word journal of engaged living (http://www.themindfulword.org)

Body art has been a central part of humankind’s means of expression throughout history. It may be argued that the impulse to create art is one of the defining signs of humanity and the body was one of the first canvases to facilitate self-expression. Enid Schildkrout’s Body Art as Visual Language states that paintings on cave walls created by early humans over 30,000 years ago show handprints and ochre deposits that suggest suggesting body painting, and some of the earliest discovered mummies date back at least 5,000 years.

Fast forward to this century, the National Geographic News stated in April 2000 that 15 per cent of Americans were tattooed (approximately 40 million people) and a Harris Poll done in 2003 estimated that 36 per cent of those aged 25-29 had one or more tattoos.

So what is the 21st century meaning behind this practice? When asking individuals their motivation to get a tattoo, they often have a personal anecdote or experience that influenced the decision. In most cases, the individual will share a piece of themselves—whether it be their own philosophy or perspective, an experience that has shaped or defined them or a passion, stating more about them than words alone could express. Jack London once said, “Show me a man with a tattoo, and I’ll show you a man with an interesting past.” People throughout history have used tattoos as a way of communicating something about themselves; whether it be their status, cultural or religious affiliation or their belonging to a particular group or clan.

However, the definition of “self” has gained importance in modern times as the focus has shifted away from the collective mentality of previous generations and transformed into an era of individualism. Although the practice of tattooing has taken on a new meaning, it still serves a similar purpose as the early depictions did: storytelling. Whether the story is centred upon the reasons for getting a tattoo, the meaning behind each piece or the experience itself, body art offers a small glimpse into the individual, allowing us to connect with and gain a better understanding of the wearer.

by Gabriella Lancia

The post BODY ART & STORYTELLING: Meaningful expressions of individualism appeared first on The Mindful Word.

Sign up for a free subscription to The Mindful Word\’s quarterly digital magazine at http://www.themindfulword.org/subscribe


Source:


Before It’s News® is a community of individuals who report on what’s going on around them, from all around the world.

Anyone can join.
Anyone can contribute.
Anyone can become informed about their world.

"United We Stand" Click Here To Create Your Personal Citizen Journalist Account Today, Be Sure To Invite Your Friends.

Before It’s News® is a community of individuals who report on what’s going on around them, from all around the world. Anyone can join. Anyone can contribute. Anyone can become informed about their world. "United We Stand" Click Here To Create Your Personal Citizen Journalist Account Today, Be Sure To Invite Your Friends.


LION'S MANE PRODUCT


Try Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend 60 Capsules


Mushrooms are having a moment. One fabulous fungus in particular, lion’s mane, may help improve memory, depression and anxiety symptoms. They are also an excellent source of nutrients that show promise as a therapy for dementia, and other neurodegenerative diseases. If you’re living with anxiety or depression, you may be curious about all the therapy options out there — including the natural ones.Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend has been formulated to utilize the potency of Lion’s mane but also include the benefits of four other Highly Beneficial Mushrooms. Synergistically, they work together to Build your health through improving cognitive function and immunity regardless of your age. Our Nootropic not only improves your Cognitive Function and Activates your Immune System, but it benefits growth of Essential Gut Flora, further enhancing your Vitality.



Our Formula includes: Lion’s Mane Mushrooms which Increase Brain Power through nerve growth, lessen anxiety, reduce depression, and improve concentration. Its an excellent adaptogen, promotes sleep and improves immunity. Shiitake Mushrooms which Fight cancer cells and infectious disease, boost the immune system, promotes brain function, and serves as a source of B vitamins. Maitake Mushrooms which regulate blood sugar levels of diabetics, reduce hypertension and boosts the immune system. Reishi Mushrooms which Fight inflammation, liver disease, fatigue, tumor growth and cancer. They Improve skin disorders and soothes digestive problems, stomach ulcers and leaky gut syndrome. Chaga Mushrooms which have anti-aging effects, boost immune function, improve stamina and athletic performance, even act as a natural aphrodisiac, fighting diabetes and improving liver function. Try Our Lion’s Mane WHOLE MIND Nootropic Blend 60 Capsules Today. Be 100% Satisfied or Receive a Full Money Back Guarantee. Order Yours Today by Following This Link.


Report abuse

    Comments

    Your Comments
    Question   Razz  Sad   Evil  Exclaim  Smile  Redface  Biggrin  Surprised  Eek   Confused   Cool  LOL   Mad   Twisted  Rolleyes   Wink  Idea  Arrow  Neutral  Cry   Mr. Green

    MOST RECENT
    Load more ...

    SignUp

    Login

    Newsletter

    Email this story
    Email this story

    If you really want to ban this commenter, please write down the reason:

    If you really want to disable all recommended stories, click on OK button. After that, you will be redirect to your options page.