Photography as a wellness tool for mature women: Seeing oneself with new eyes
- Loredana Denicola
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
I had the privilege of working with a group of women over 60, creating a space where awareness, self-esteem, and well-being intertwine through the art of photography.
As part of the "Esperienza Benessere, Turismo sociale per la terza età" program, organised by Apulia Food and Tourism, I led a photography workshop designed to help these women feel valued, understood, and free to express themselves without fear of judgment.
Photography as Self-Discovery
Photography is much more than a tool for documenting moments of life: it is a means to rediscover oneself and observe the world from a new perspective.
During the workshop, the participants used their smartphones to explore and highlight aspects of their bodies and inner qualities that they recognised as positive.
One of the most significant moments was the mirror ritual, where they passed a mirror among themselves, gazing into each other’s eyes and concluding the observation with a powerful phrase:“I appreciate and approve of myself as I am, in my uniqueness.”
In this context, the act of photography transformed into a true wellness tool, capable of generating a profound sense of personal fulfillment.
As we age, social isolation can have a significant impact on mental and physical health. However, photography has the power to create connections - not only with others but also with ourselves.
It provides an opportunity for self-observation, recognition, and the rebuilding of one’s identity.
Through images, the women in the workshop left aside their past and focused on the present - on who they are today.
The work done in pairs (many of them had never used photography as a means of expression) and the sharing of photographs within the group became opportunities to tell their stories, decide how they wanted to be seen, and form new connections, strengthening authentic relationships.
As people enter their later years, many begin to feel invisible or neglected, due to physical changes, the loss of social networks, or the absence of an active role in society.
Photography offers a valuable opportunity to reclaim one's identity by observing oneself and the world through new eyes.
Even with just a simple smartphone, one learns to notice details that often go unnoticed: a friendly face, a corner of the garden, the light of a sunset.This mindful observation helps rediscover the beauty in small things, promoting a positive mindset and deep gratitude.
In the workshop, photography was not just a creative activity, but also a true mental exercise. Every photo became an opportunity to train attention, memory, reflection, and creativity. Participants had to decide how to convey their emotions to others, helping them express themselves more openly.
Numerous studies have shown the psychological benefits of photography, and it is now also used in therapeutic contexts, such as nursing homes, to improve communication, strengthen social bonds, and combat loneliness.
Rediscovering Authenticity
In particular, portrait photography can help rediscover the beauty of authenticity.
Every face tells a story, and every wrinkle is a sign of experience.
The workshop offered a safe space for participants to approach their self-image in a positive way, fostering acceptance, recognition of their uniqueness, and appreciation for the marks left by time.
Photography as an exercise in gratitude
Finally, photography can become a powerful exercise in gratitude.
Every image captures a small daily joy: a walk in the park, a dinner with friends, a shared moment with family.
These fragments of life, observed with mindfulness, generate a profound sense of gratitude that has positive effects on mental health, reducing anxiety and depression.
Photography is not just a technique: it is a language of the heart, a means of discovering and rediscovering ourselves.For mature women, it can be a powerful way to connect with awareness, authenticity, and well-being.
It helps rediscover the hidden beauty within us, in the details of everyday life; stimulates creativity, strengthens memory, fosters interaction, and creates new spaces for inner connection.
It is an invitation to slow down, observe, and find meaning - both in our image and in our lives.
by Loredana Denicola
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