As the pandemic swept the world, it brought waves of emotional turmoil, pain, and despair, making mental health a more sensitive topic. Among those fighting on the frontlines were healthcare workers who witnessed firsthand the devastation caused by COVID-19. Pulmonologist and critical care physician, Dr. Prerna S. Sharma was one of them. Her story is about resilience, self-care, and philanthropy through a meditative art practice to enhance wellness.

Dr. Sharma shares her journey of finding solace and healing through painting during the pandemic. She talks about how her artistic journey inspired her to use her talents for mental health advocacy and philanthropy, aiming to empower others to embrace self-care practices and positively impact their communities.

By incorporating moments of positivity and gratefulness into her painting sessions, Dr. Sharma found that she could counteract negative thoughts and emotions. "Painting is a kind of meditation for me," she says. "My mind becomes fixated on the colors, and my hand moves effortlessly across the canvas."

Growing up, Dr. Sharma often saw her mother painting. However, her mother contracted COVID-19. On recovering, Dr. Sharma noted with great concern how her mother immediately returned to creating paintings. It was then that she realized the therapeutic benefits of painting and decided to try it.

Initially, while painting, Prerna dwelled on negative thoughts such as COVID statistics and patient outcomes. Although she created some of her best work while feeling low, this habit was ultimately draining. She had to change her practice and began incorporating gratitude into her painting sessions. The results were remarkable. "Combining the meditative practice of painting with the benefits of gratitude made a significant difference," Dr. Sharma says.

Through her artistic practice, Dr. Sharma discovered a new way for enhancing her well-being. Painting has been instrumental in finding her inner peace.

"It's essential that we continue these conversations about mental health and wellness while highlighting the value of easily accessible self-care tools," Dr. Sharma asserts.  Dr. Sharma’s journey also inspired her to use her talents for philanthropy. She believes that giving back to the community is a crucial part of her identity as a physician and human being. She has volunteered at various healthcare institutions, schools, and charitable organizations. She wants to rekindle her philanthropic spirit and continue positively impacting her community using art.

Art can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and funds for charitable causes. "My decision to pursue medicine was driven by a desire to help people and make a difference," Dr. Sharma adds. "I want to use my platform as an artist to raise funds for various charitable causes so I can give back to society."  In memory of her physician friend, she would like to start by donating to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as she wishes to advance research and development in this field.

Dr. Sharma plans to organize fundraisers that involve the sale or auction of her artwork and events where people can sign up to paint with her. Charitable endeavors like these can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by different diseases and causes. They not only provide much-needed resources and support but also help raise awareness about important issues and inspire others to get involved and make a difference. Dr. Sharma’s efforts are a testament to the power of individuals to make a positive impact on the world around them.