Top 5 Lessons I've Learned as a Therapeutic Clown

I'm excited to tell you about my recent adventure on the Sunshine Coast, where I teamed up with the fantastic Coastal Caring Clowns to explore the world of therapeutic clowning.

Coastal Caring Clowns traces its roots back to the passion and inspiration of a Sunshine Coast resident, Barbara Brewster, who toured with Patch Adams in Russia and the USA in the 1990s.

When I was invited to facilitate a Healing with Humour Lab, I wasn't sure what to expect. What I encountered, however, left me in awe. Over two days filled with laughter and insight, I witnessed the profound impact of the group's skills and dedication to the art of therapeutic clowning.

Let me start by sharing the stories of Eileen and Brian, aka Bluebird and Bubbles, the dynamic duo of giggles.
 
“Your workshop helped me make more eye contact with a group. Shyness has always been a real thing with me. Clowning has helped me immensely to be more confident & speak up more. Your workshop has also increased my belief in myself.” - Eileen aka ‘Bluebird’ 

"Alicia, you dragged something out of me which was trying very hard to stay hidden behind a quiet and very conservative and comfortable existence. I had been thinking that my clowning had become a bit stodgy. You stirred up the sediment and turned it into something which is the start of the new me” - Brian aka ‘Bubbles’
 
Their words hit me right in the funny bone, showing the power of clowning to bring out our inner goofball and jump out of our comfort zones. 

What touched me the most was the profound sense of community and camaraderie that permeates their organisation. Despite most of the volunteer clowns being retired and not receiving any monetary compensation, each volunteer shares a unified mission: to illuminate lives through laughter and empathy. It's this collective dedication to service and craft that sets Coastal Caring Clowns apart. 

At its core, therapeutic clowning embodies the essence of artistry in service, offering a poignant response to contemporary realities of isolation, inequality, and powerlessness. It acknowledges the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, fostering healing not only for individuals but for entire communities. In a world often plagued by division and despair, these volunteer clowns stand as beacons of light, wielding laughter as their healing tool.

As a therapeutic clown, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of play and laughter in healthcare, arts and corporate settings. In my journey, I've gleaned invaluable lessons that have not only enriched my practice but also shaped my perspective on life. Eileen and Brian's stories inspired me to distill my insights into five guiding principles for fellow travellers on this path:
 
1/ Play and laughter: medicine for the soul
 
One of the fundamental truths I've discovered is the profound impact of play and laughter on physical and psychological well-being. Beyond mere entertainment, play and laughter serve as potent remedies, reducing stress, boosting morale, and fostering a sense of joy amidst challenging circumstances. Whether engaging in whimsical games or sharing a moment of levity, the therapeutic clown's role extends far beyond entertainment—it becomes a beacon of hope and healing.
 
2/ Connection trumps performance
 
Contrary to popular belief, therapeutic clowning isn't about being the funniest or mastering a repertoire of gags. Instead, it's about forging genuine connections, establishing rapport, and creating an environment conducive to laughter and play. Authentic connections transcend barriers, fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among patients, families, and staff.

Happy and in awe with the Coastal Caring Clowns, Sunshine Coast

3/ Self-care through connection and play
 
In the demanding realm of life, work and everything in between, self-care often takes a backseat. However, I've come to realise that true self-care stems from fostering connections and indulging in play, rather than erecting emotional barriers. By immersing ourselves in the world of others, we replenish our spirits, finding solace and rejuvenation amidst the chaos.
 
4/ Embracing the present moment
 
Therapeutic clowning has taught me the importance of embracing the present moment—the "now." In the whimsical realm of clowning, there's no room for dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Instead, every moment is an opportunity for spontaneous connection, uninhibited expression, and boundless creativity.
 
5/ Empathy and perspective-taking
 
Perhaps the most profound lesson of all is the ability to see the world through the eyes of others. By embodying compassion and empathy, therapeutic clowns create a safe space where patients feel understood, valued, and empowered. Whether engaging with non-verbal children, improvising with props, or playing the role of the "low-status" clown, our ultimate goal is to uplift and empower those we encounter.

Alicia in 'Enclownter', a public art therapeutic clowning performance. 

Therapeutic clowning isn't just a vocation—it's a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and profound human connection. By embracing play, fostering connections, and embodying empathy, we not only bring laughter to healthcare settings but also sow the seeds of healing and hope in other spaces and communities. 

May we all find fulfilment in spreading laughter and compassion wherever life leads us.

Exploring Therapeutic Clowning: Learn more about the principles and practices behind therapeutic clowning and its impact on well-being.