Colour-blocked walls and kitschy masks crafted from plastic cans greet us as we step into the 3,000 sq ft C.L.A.P (Creative Learning Arts and Performance) in Malad. Launched last week by Mumbai-based theatre director and expressive art therapist Mishti Varma and entrepreneur Faisal Poonawala, the activity centre for children, women and parents provides therapy and self-expression through various forms of art, be it yoga, dance, theatre, storytelling, painting or even board games.


Yoga expert Shrutika Rao (right) observes the reporter's (second from right) cobra-imitation-moves during a dance yoga session. Pics/Datta Kumbhar 

"We are conditioned to articulate using the left side of our brain, and so, we end up suppressing our emotions. Creative art therapy helps develop self-awareness, and you feel happier," says Varma, who also conducts soft skill classes for children as young as five.