We Love a Good Theme
Why Disneyland, Vegas, and Rainforest Cafe Improve Our Mental Health
Happy Monday! And Happy February! Did the groundhog see his shadow? What does that mean anyway? I really do love that movie, though. It’s maybe Bill Murray’s best work.
Strap in - today’s blog is a long one.
SOCIAL JUSTICE SPOTLIGHT
Every week in February, I’d like to share some information about African American history as part of a larger commitment to presenting social justice content weekly. Let me address why by answering a couple of questions.
What do I mean by social justice?
It’s a broad and complex concept that refers to the pursuit of fairness and equality within a society. It encompasses a wide range of issues including, but not limited to, racial equality, gender equality, economic equity, LGBTQ+ rights, and access to education and healthcare. The core idea behind social justice is that all individuals should have equal rights and opportunities and that societal structures should be adjusted or reformed to address imbalances and injustices. This concept often involves addressing historical and systemic inequalities that have marginalized certain groups. Social justice advocates strive for a society where everyone can participate fully and be treated equally, regardless of background or identity. This can involve legislative changes, educational reforms, community organizing, and other social change methods.
Why am I including this content on a blog that has been politically free for so long?
While I’d like to avoid controversy as much as possible and make this blog (and the podcast) accessible to all worldviews and political ideologies, I must also accurately reflect my counseling style and theoretical orientation.
I primarily identify with the Relational-Cultural Theory of Counseling. Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) in counseling is a psychological theory developed in the late 20th century by Jean Baker Miller and her colleagues at the Stone Center at Wellesley College. This theory represented a shift from the traditional view of psychology, which often emphasized individual autonomy and independence, to a focus on relationships and connectedness as central to human growth and well-being.
Some fundamental principles of Relational-Cultural Theory include an emphasis on growth through connection, the central role of empathy, increasing relational resilience, a movement towards mutuality in our relationships, and addressing (and healing) chronic disconnection. In addition, the theory recognizes that social and cultural contexts, including systemic inequalities and power imbalances based on gender, race, class, and other identities, deeply influence personal experiences and relationships.
What issues will you be talking about?
In February, we’re going to talk about white privilege as well as spotlighting African-American heritage. In June, I plan to highlight LBGTQ+ issues. In other months, we’ll chat about poverty, gender inequalities, and other things. If you find this problematic, off-putting, or uninteresting, that’s OK! You can just scroll past it; I’ll label this part of the blog clearly.
Also, a quick note on cultural humility. I recognize my own biases, inherent whiteness, and a need to learn from people whose experiences have been far different from mine. I pledge to listen more, read more, and learn more to be an effective ally to others.
Cultural humility is a concept that involves an ongoing process of self-exploration and self-critique combined with a willingness to learn from others. Unlike cultural competence, which suggests a finite level of knowledge or mastery of a particular group's cultural codes and practices, cultural humility acknowledges that understanding another's cultural experience is a lifelong endeavor. Here are some aspects of how I plan to practice and emphasize cultural humility:
I recognize that culture is complex and ever-changing, and I commit to a lifelong journey of learning about diverse cultures and identities. I pledge to actively engage in conversations and activities that expand my understanding of these diverse perspectives. I understand the importance of being aware of the dynamics of power and privilege in both interpersonal interactions and systemic structures. I commit to actively seeking ways to address and mitigate these imbalances, advocating for marginalized voices, and being open to listening and altering practices that may inadvertently perpetuate inequality.
In my interactions with others, I pledge to approach each encounter to learn and build relationships based on mutual respect and equality. I value and respect differences, recognizing that they enrich our collective human experience rather than trying to override them with my cultural norms. I pledge to remain open to other's perspectives and to willingly admit when I do not know or understand something about another's culture. Part of this openness involves being vulnerable in acknowledging and confronting my own cultural biases and assumptions. I will also advocate for policies and practices in my profession, community, and other groups I am part of that promote cultural humility and address systemic inequalities. Regular self-reflection on my cultural assumptions and biases will be crucial to my commitment, as challenging these personal viewpoints is essential to proper understanding and respect.
I accept that cultural humility is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth and understanding. I pledge to actively listen and engage in dialogue with individuals from diverse backgrounds, recognizing that open and respectful communication is a cornerstone of learning and empathy.
AFRICAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH SPOTLIGHT
Happy Birthday to Henry “Hank” Aaron! Hank Aaron, born on February 5, 1934, was a legendary baseball player known for breaking Babe Ruth's long-standing home run record. Aaron's career spanned from 1954 to 1976. He spent most of his time with the Milwaukee and Atlanta Braves. He was a prolific home run hitter and a symbol of endurance and resilience in the face of significant racial hostility, especially as he closed in on Babe Ruth's record. His achievements and dignity in handling adversity made him an important figure in sports and the broader context of African-American history and the Civil Rights Movement. Mr. Aaron died in 2021 from natural causes.
Since this is my blog, I can’t help but find a personal connection - unsurprisingly, that comes through the world of professional wrestling. Mr. Aaron was an executive with Ted Turner’s organization and, therefore, had some dealings in professional wrestling in the 90s; he’s rumored to be part of why Bill Watts was fired from his position in WCW after making racist comments. This Deadspin article details the controversy.
Aaron is just one of many athletes who used their platform to advance civil rights. We’ll highlight other historical figures from various walks of life in the weeks to come.
WE LOVE A GOOD THEME
"You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." - Maya Angelou
At the end of this month, I’ll travel to Disneyland in California to celebrate my friend Connie’s birthday. We’re also celebrating her retirement and our 20th Friendship Anniversary. It’s close to my birthday, too, but I think I will let her have the birthday spotlight this time; it’s a milestone for her, and I’ve had plenty of Disney birthdays. (Anne, my podcast co-host, is going to Walt Disney World at the end of March. Tune in today to hear us talk about our favorite Disney attractions and experiences on the podcast.)
People often wonder why I’m so drawn to the Disney parks; it’s many things, but primarily, it’s because I love a good theme. It’s why I adore Las Vegas, too. An immersive experience where one is transported to a specific time, place, era, fantasy, or story is magical - and I just can’t get enough.
Theming, exemplified by the immersive environments of Disney World, Vegas resorts, and themed restaurants, significantly enhances mental health. This art of creating detailed, themed environments offers a unique blend of escapism, creativity, and emotional engagement that goes beyond simple entertainment, positively impacting our psychological well-being.
One of the most profound benefits of theming is escapism. In today's fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety are typical, themed environments provide a much-needed sanctuary. Disney World, for example, isn't just an amusement park; it’s a meticulously crafted universe that transports visitors into magical realms, offering a break from the realities of everyday life. This detachment from daily stressors is a critical factor in stress relief. The depth and authenticity of these themed environments allow individuals to immerse themselves in an alternate reality, temporarily setting aside their worries.
Beyond mere escapism, themed environments stimulate creativity and imagination. They encourage visitors, especially children, to think outside the box. Exposure to imaginative settings, such as a fantasy-themed restaurant or a science-fiction-based attraction, expands one's creative thinking. For children, it can inspire artistic expression and storytelling. For adults, these environments can reignite the sense of wonder often lost in routine life, enhancing cognitive flexibility and openness to new ideas.
Theming also fosters social interaction and community building. These environments are communal spaces where people with similar interests converge, cultivating a sense of belonging and connection. This aspect is crucial for mental health, as it helps combat loneliness and isolation. Whether it’s fans of a particular movie series or enthusiasts of a historical era, themed environments provide a platform for shared experiences and community engagement.
The emotional engagement elicited by themed environments is another significant benefit. These settings often create intense emotional experiences, leading to the formation of positive memories. The joy, excitement, and awe experienced in a themed park or a uniquely designed restaurant contribute to lasting positive emotions. These memories can provide comfort and happiness, especially during challenging times.
Additionally, many themed environments have an educational aspect. They combine entertainment with learning, providing mentally stimulating experiences. This is particularly important for cognitive health, as it keeps the mind active and engaged. From learning about historical periods in a themed restaurant to exploring futuristic concepts in a science fiction setting, theming can be fun and intellectually enriching.
In summary, the value of theming in mental health is multifaceted. It offers a respite from stress, enhances creativity and imagination, fosters social connections, creates emotionally positive experiences, and provides educational value. The significance of themed environments in offering joy, escapism, and a sense of community cannot be overstated in a world where mental health is a growing concern. These spaces are not just places of amusement; they are vital in nurturing imagination, happiness, and a sense of belonging, contributing significantly to our overall emotional and mental well-being.
This content is for educational and entertainment purposes and is not the same as therapy. If you need to talk to someone, go to PsychologyToday.com or one of the many online therapy platforms available and start treatment with a professional today!
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