Chinese calligraphy, a form of written pictures, has been practiced for thousands of years for its artistic and healing properties.  Calligraphy in the orient is a meditative practice that encourages the integration of body and mind. The effect of Chinese brush calligraphy practice is similar to that of relaxation training, which includes slower heart rate, decreased blood pressure and decelerated respiration.

Shui-mo painting is the Chinese word for Black Ink Painting. It is also known in Japan as Sumi-e painting. It was developed in the Song Dynasty (960-1279AD) when calligraphers began to add simplified artwork to their poetry calligraphy work using the same materials.