As we delved deeper into the significance of art in our lives, we uncovered several interesting results. We are by no means doctors and this article is not and should not be thought of as medical advice in anyway. However, in this article we’ll reveal the valuable knowledge we found that could potentially help you or someone you know.
In the fast-paced world we live in today, stress has become an all-too-familiar companion. It’s easy to overlook the significance of art in our daily lives. Art isn’t just a pleasant decoration for our walls; it’s a profound expression of human creativity, a reflection of our culture, and a source of inspiration. Have you ever stopped to consider the negative side effects of not having art to view in your life? In this article, we’ll explore the hidden scientific consequences of an artless existence and why having no art in your life may be more damaging than you think.
From demanding jobs to personal responsibilities, the pressure can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there’s an accessible and scientifically proven way to alleviate stress: ART. Whether you’re creating art or simply enjoying the beauty of it, the therapeutic benefits of art are more than just anecdotal.
Let’s delve into 10 compelling scientific ways behind the stress-reducing power of art.
1. Rising Tides of Anxiety: Drastically Lowers Stress
Numerous studies have highlighted the stress-reducing effects of engaging in art. Engaging in art and even just viewing artwork activates the brain’s reward pathways, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and relaxation. Without this outlet, people may struggle to cope with and process their emotions, leading to increased stress, strife and possibly crime.
In a study done by the University of Westminster, workers who visited and art gallery for 30 minutes on their lunch break reported a rapid and substantial drop in cortisol levels, the stress hormone, under normal circumstances it would take about 5 hours of normal diurnal decline for cortisol levels to fall to that extent. They concluded that the gallery visit caused rapid normalization (recovery) from the consequences of high stress. This article was first published in the Journal of Holistic Healthcare, 3 (2). pp. 29–32, 2006 Authors are Angela Clow with Cathrine Fredhoi
2. The Healing Power of Art
Empirical evidence shows the healing effects and power artwork has on individuals and community health. Artwork has the ability to improve your mood, decrease the behavioral/psychological symptoms, improved verbal skills and overall outcome. Science has proven that without art we would see a rise in overall stress, blood pressure, a need for medication, rise in hospital numbers, and the list goes on.
Art has the power to evoke a range of emotions and stimulate a sense of accomplishment. A review in the journal “Psychiatry Research” noted that art-based interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The act of creating art can lead to an increase in positive emotions and a reduction in negative ones, ultimately contributing to emotional well-being.
“Regarding intervention, the forms of art therapy are becoming increasingly diversified, not limited to traditional forms of art, such as painting, making collages and cutting shapes, but expanding to innovative interventions such as visual arts activities, appreciating the classic works of art in museums and art museum programs that combine art appreciation and the creation of art through recollection.” Authors Qiu-Yue Wang Dong-Mei — 2016 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095771816300755#bib18
“Medical professionals are beginning to recognize the role that creative arts play in the healing process; increasingly, arts in medicine programs are emerging throughout the United States and worldwide. With the success of the University of Florida’s general arts in medicine program, a similar set of activities was launched in the long-term dialysis unit with the goal of assessing their effects” Authors Heather L. Stuckey, DEd and Jeremy Nobel, MD, MPH 2010
3. Improves critical thinking skills
Engaging with art, whether by creating it or simply appreciating it on a wall, has been linked to improved cognitive functions. A study conducted by the American Academy of Neurology that individuals who regularly engage in artistic activities exhibited better cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, memory retention, and critical thinking. Without art is it possible we would be dull?
“A study published by the University of Arkansas found that children who viewed art displayed improved critical thinking skills and increased historical empathy, the ability to perceive what life was like for people who live in a different time and place. Ten thousand students were evaluated on observation, interpretation, evaluation, association, and problem solving skills. After a trip to the art museum, there was between a 9–18% increase reported in the students’ critical thinking skills.” https://www.invaluable.com/blog/benefits-of-art/
https://www.educationnext.org/the-educational-value-of-field-trips/
by JAY P. GREENE, BRIAN KISIDA, and DANIEL H. BOWEN
4. Improves Memory and Increased Brain Connectivity
Appreciating art and art therapy can significantly enhance the quality of life for those living with memory issues, decreasing anxiety and increasing self-esteem while simultaneously relieving agitation and depression associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Without art it’s possible the ones we love may be harder to reach.
Memory Ensemble, an innovative program, teaches participants to explore and create improvised theater. Preliminary results indicate that this approach improves mood as well as feelings of belongingness, normalcy and stigmatization among its participants.
Susan Magsamen stated how “Research now makes clear that experiencing or creating art sparks a dynamic interplay among brain cells that spearheads billions of changes affecting our thoughts, emotions, and actions. This knowledge elevates the arts to a superpower in its potential for healing and empowerment. Indeed, if we were to design a tool from scratch to improve learning, health, and overall well-being, it would look like the arts.” Published: July 11, 2019 Author: Susan Magsamen
Several studies show strong correlational evidence that suggests involvement in the arts enhances memory processing of learning events. In addition, it improves students’ academic outcomes.
5. Pain Management and Distraction
Engaging with art can serve as a distraction from physical pain. Research published in the “Harvard Medical School” suggests that patients who participated in art-related activities experienced reduced pain perception and increased comfort levels. This effect is attributed to the brain’s ability to focus on the creative task at hand rather than on the pain signals. In that article by Matthew Solan he references another study conducted “in the February 2018 issue of The Arts in Psychotherapy that looked at almost 200 people hospitalized for a medical issue or surgery. The researchers found that participating in art therapy for an average of 50 minutes significantly improved their moods, and lowered levels of pain and anxiety.”
Engaging with art and art therapy has been widely recognized as a valuable tool for individuals coping with trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Scientific studies, such as one published in the “National Library of Medicine,” have demonstrated the efficacy of art therapy in reducing symptoms of PTSD by providing an outlet for the expression of complex emotions that may be difficult to verbalize. They found patients who did art therapy experienced a greater reduction in PTSD symptoms than the control group.
As a result, the absence of art can compel individuals who have endured painful or traumatic life experiences to resort to undesirable and extreme actions as coping mechanisms.
6. Promotion of Mindfulness
What is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is a mental practice centered on being fully present in the moment, without judgment or the need to change anything. It involves focusing on thoughts, feelings, sensations, and the environment around you. Core principles include present moment awareness, non-judgment, and acceptance of things as they are. Mindfulness often begins with breath awareness and can be cultivated through practices like meditation. Regular mindfulness can reduce stress, boost self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being. It’s widely used in psychology and various fields for stress reduction, anxiety management, and improved focus and productivity.
Immersing oneself in the world of art, whether as a creator or an appreciator, often demands complete presence in the here and now, nurturing a state of flow and mindfulness. Lydia G. Fogo, in her Honors Thesis titled “Enhancing Mindfulness through Engagement with Visual Arts” conducted at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, substantiated that by viewing artwork can indeed elevate mindfulness and amplify one’s self-awareness.
7. Social Connection and Community Building
Participating in art-related activities can facilitate social interaction and the formation of a sense of community. Whether through art classes, workshops, or group exhibitions, individuals can connect with others who share their creative interests. Research published in the journal “National Library of Medicine” highlights the positive impact of social interactions facilitated by art-related experiences on psychological well-being. “Findings show positive results on physical, social, and psychological wellbeing (Kitwana, 2014; Moe, 2014; Feinberg et al., 2016; O’Brien, 2016; Schroeder et al., 2017; Atkins et al., 2018; Campbell, 2019).”
These compelling studies undeniably highlight that art is one of the essential pillars for supporting the physical, social, and psychological well-being of countless individuals. Depriving ourselves of art’s enriching influence could prove gravely detrimental.
8. Improved Motor Skills and Coordination
Participating in artistic endeavors like painting, drawing, or sculpture necessitates the utilization of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Consistent engagement in these creative pursuits can significantly enhance these essential skills.
Research conducted by Tatiana J. Miranda Orama at Leslie University, titled “Benefits to Motor Development of Preschool-Age Children in the Screen Era Preschool-Age Children in the Screen,” demonstrates that engaging in artistic activities, particularly in natural outdoor settings, can effectively counteract excessive screen time. This engagement fosters the development of motor skills, thereby benefiting not only artistic pursuits but also everyday tasks requiring precision. Without the opportunity to engage in art, there is a risk of experiencing a significant decline or delay in the development of these crucial skills, potentially impacting various learning styles.
9. Enhanced Brain Plasticity
Neuroplasticity, the brain’s remarkable capacity to restructure itself and establish new connections, plays a pivotal role in the process of learning and adapting to novel experiences. The appreciation of art is a testament to this phenomenon.
In a thought-provoking article titled “How Art Shapes the Brain,” published by the University of Sydney, the transformative effects of engaging in creative pursuits and the act of appreciating art on brain plasticity are explored. This exploration underscores how participation in artistic endeavors and the cultivation of an appreciation for art can elevate brain plasticity, fostering cognitive flexibility, and ultimately contributing to sustained cognitive well-being throughout one’s lifetime. Importantly, it is emphasized that these benefits are not constrained by age.
One remarkable initiative that exemplifies the power of art in enhancing neuroplasticity is the collaborative effort between Sharon and her colleagues with the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). Together, they embarked on a comprehensive three-year research project known as “Artful,” designed to assess the capacity of art and creativity to stimulate neuroplasticity in individuals living with dementia.
Enhancing neuroplasticity through engagement with art offers a transformative opportunity to reshape our perceptions and actions, enabling us to recognize the profound significance of art in urban landscapes, public monuments, historic landmarks, and architectural marvels. Whether actively crafting art or simply immersing oneself in its beauty, these experiences can unlock the limitless potential of your imagination, inspiring thoughts and possibilities you never before envisioned.
A perfect example is when Nadrian Seeman, a New York University professor, remembered a painting by artist MC Escher titled “Depth.” This piece of art helped him visualize how DNA junctions work. Which led to several branches of research now being conducted in more than 50 labs around the world.
This is a small snippet illustrating professor Seemans epiphany, if you have time the full article is here. “One day at the local pub, Seeman was thinking about DNA junctions — created when strands of different DNA double helixes are unzipped and stuck together to form branched intersections — when an image by M.C. Escher popped into his head. The illustration, titled “Depth,” depicts fish swimming in a regular pattern with other fish lined up above, below, in front, and behind. He realized that if he combined the right strands of nucleotides, their sticky ends would meet up and they would automatically conform to a repeating three-dimensional grid of six-arm junctions, just like Escher’s fish.
“When I had that epiphany in the bar, I had been doing a lot of things that to me were really neat, but it wasn’t me,” Seeman recalls. “Crystallography was fun, and I was good at it, but something clicked in me that said, ‘This is what I’ve got to spend the rest of my life doing.’ ” Controlling matter on a fine scale using DNA had the analytical components of crystallography, but he saw considerably more potential for creativity.”
10. Cardiovascular Health Benefits
It’s truly astonishing how art appreciation can profoundly influence your cardiovascular health. While various forms of artwork have been linked to cardiovascular health improvements, it’s particularly noteworthy that nature-themed artwork seems to have the most substantial impact.
Remarkably, as stated in an article by the University of Vienna, even very brief moments spent viewing such art can yield significant benefits, including a reduction in negative mood, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness, along with an enhancement in overall subjective well-being.
These findings are on par with the positive outcomes observed in other interventions, such as immersive nature experiences and visits to traditional art galleries. What these studies unmistakably reveal is that the more individuals perceive art as meaningful or beautiful, and the more positive emotions they experience while engaging with it, the greater the potential health benefits they can reap.
According to the article, “Evidence for the effects of viewing visual artworks on stress outcomes: a scoping review” on the National Library of Medicine found that individuals who engaged in art viewing experienced improved cardiovascular parameters, including lower heart rates and reduced cortisol levels. This suggests that the emotional and physiological responses triggered by art can positively influence heart health.
To conclude, it’s clear art isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential component of a well-rounded life. The detrimental repercussions of neglecting art in one’s life can be profound. The findings from our research are just a glimpse of the extensive repercussions. The absence of art in one’s life can lead to serious consequences, including emotional stagnation, heightened stress, diminished creativity, reduced brain adaptability, elevated blood pressure and cortisol levels, to name a few.
To combat these consequences, we would love to know what your thoughts are. Some of the obvious things are to find an artist that creates artwork that speaks to you, speaks to your soul and make an effort to incorporate that art into your daily routine. Embrace art by visiting galleries, exploring local artists, exploring art museums, or even take up a creative hobby yourself. By doing so, you’ll enrich your life and tap into the profound benefits that art has to offer.
Incorporating art into your life can unlock a myriad of wellness benefits that are firmly rooted in scientific research. From stress reduction and mood enhancement to improved cognitive function and cardiovascular health, the transformative power of art is a holistic approach to well-being that deserves more recognition. So, whether you’re picking up a paintbrush, visiting an art gallery, or admiring your favorite local artist, remember that each creative endeavor you undertake has the potential to positively transform your health.
As we delved deeper into the significance of art in our lives, we uncovered several interesting results. We are by no means doctors and this article is not and should not be thought of as medical advice in anyway. However, in this article we’ll reveal the valuable knowledge we found that could potentially help you or someone you know.
In the fast-paced world we live in today, stress has become an all-too-familiar companion. It’s easy to overlook the significance of art in our daily lives. Art isn’t just a pleasant decoration for our walls; it’s a profound expression of human creativity, a reflection of our culture, and a source of inspiration. Have you ever stopped to consider the negative side effects of not having art to view in your life? In this article, we’ll explore the hidden scientific consequences of an artless existence and why having no art in your life may be more damaging than you think.
From demanding jobs to personal responsibilities, the pressure can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there’s an accessible and scientifically proven way to alleviate stress: ART. Whether you’re creating art or simply enjoying the beauty of it, the therapeutic benefits of art are more than just anecdotal.
Let’s delve into 10 compelling scientific ways behind the stress-reducing power of art.
1. Rising Tides of Anxiety: Drastically Lowers Stress
Numerous studies have highlighted the stress-reducing effects of engaging in art. Engaging in art and even just viewing artwork activates the brain’s reward pathways, leading to the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and relaxation. Without this outlet, people may struggle to cope with and process their emotions, leading to increased stress, strife and possibly crime.
In a study done by the University of Westminster, workers who visited and art gallery for 30 minutes on their lunch break reported a rapid and substantial drop in cortisol levels, the stress hormone, under normal circumstances it would take about 5 hours of normal diurnal decline for cortisol levels to fall to that extent. They concluded that the gallery visit caused rapid normalization (recovery) from the consequences of high stress. This article was first published in the Journal of Holistic Healthcare, 3 (2). pp. 29–32, 2006 Authors are Angela Clow with Cathrine Fredhoi
2. The Healing Power of Art
Empirical evidence shows the healing effects and power artwork has on individuals and community health. Artwork has the ability to improve your mood, decrease the behavioral/psychological symptoms, improved verbal skills and overall outcome. Science has proven that without art we would see a rise in overall stress, blood pressure, a need for medication, rise in hospital numbers, and the list goes on.
Art has the power to evoke a range of emotions and stimulate a sense of accomplishment. A review in the journal “Psychiatry Research” noted that art-based interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The act of creating art can lead to an increase in positive emotions and a reduction in negative ones, ultimately contributing to emotional well-being.
“Regarding intervention, the forms of art therapy are becoming increasingly diversified, not limited to traditional forms of art, such as painting, making collages and cutting shapes, but expanding to innovative interventions such as visual arts activities, appreciating the classic works of art in museums and art museum programs that combine art appreciation and the creation of art through recollection.” Authors Qiu-Yue Wang Dong-Mei — 2016 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095771816300755#bib18
“Medical professionals are beginning to recognize the role that creative arts play in the healing process; increasingly, arts in medicine programs are emerging throughout the United States and worldwide. With the success of the University of Florida’s general arts in medicine program, a similar set of activities was launched in the long-term dialysis unit with the goal of assessing their effects” Authors Heather L. Stuckey, DEd and Jeremy Nobel, MD, MPH 2010
3. Improves critical thinking skills
Engaging with art, whether by creating it or simply appreciating it on a wall, has been linked to improved cognitive functions. A study conducted by the American Academy of Neurology that individuals who regularly engage in artistic activities exhibited better cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving, memory retention, and critical thinking. Without art is it possible we would be dull?
“A study published by the University of Arkansas found that children who viewed art displayed improved critical thinking skills and increased historical empathy, the ability to perceive what life was like for people who live in a different time and place. Ten thousand students were evaluated on observation, interpretation, evaluation, association, and problem solving skills. After a trip to the art museum, there was between a 9–18% increase reported in the students’ critical thinking skills.” https://www.invaluable.com/blog/benefits-of-art/
https://www.educationnext.org/the-educational-value-of-field-trips/
by JAY P. GREENE, BRIAN KISIDA, and DANIEL H. BOWEN
4. Improves Memory and Increased Brain Connectivity
Appreciating art and art therapy can significantly enhance the quality of life for those living with memory issues, decreasing anxiety and increasing self-esteem while simultaneously relieving agitation and depression associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Without art it’s possible the ones we love may be harder to reach.
Memory Ensemble, an innovative program, teaches participants to explore and create improvised theater. Preliminary results indicate that this approach improves mood as well as feelings of belongingness, normalcy and stigmatization among its participants.
Susan Magsamen stated how “Research now makes clear that experiencing or creating art sparks a dynamic interplay among brain cells that spearheads billions of changes affecting our thoughts, emotions, and actions. This knowledge elevates the arts to a superpower in its potential for healing and empowerment. Indeed, if we were to design a tool from scratch to improve learning, health, and overall well-being, it would look like the arts.” Published: July 11, 2019 Author: Susan Magsamen
Several studies show strong correlational evidence that suggests involvement in the arts enhances memory processing of learning events. In addition, it improves students’ academic outcomes.
5. Pain Management and Distraction
Engaging with art can serve as a distraction from physical pain. Research published in the “Harvard Medical School” suggests that patients who participated in art-related activities experienced reduced pain perception and increased comfort levels. This effect is attributed to the brain’s ability to focus on the creative task at hand rather than on the pain signals. In that article by Matthew Solan he references another study conducted “in the February 2018 issue of The Arts in Psychotherapy that looked at almost 200 people hospitalized for a medical issue or surgery. The researchers found that participating in art therapy for an average of 50 minutes significantly improved their moods, and lowered levels of pain and anxiety.”
Engaging with art and art therapy has been widely recognized as a valuable tool for individuals coping with trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Scientific studies, such as one published in the “National Library of Medicine,” have demonstrated the efficacy of art therapy in reducing symptoms of PTSD by providing an outlet for the expression of complex emotions that may be difficult to verbalize. They found patients who did art therapy experienced a greater reduction in PTSD symptoms than the control group.
As a result, the absence of art can compel individuals who have endured painful or traumatic life experiences to resort to undesirable and extreme actions as coping mechanisms.
6. Promotion of Mindfulness
What is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is a mental practice centered on being fully present in the moment, without judgment or the need to change anything. It involves focusing on thoughts, feelings, sensations, and the environment around you. Core principles include present moment awareness, non-judgment, and acceptance of things as they are. Mindfulness often begins with breath awareness and can be cultivated through practices like meditation. Regular mindfulness can reduce stress, boost self-awareness, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being. It’s widely used in psychology and various fields for stress reduction, anxiety management, and improved focus and productivity.
Immersing oneself in the world of art, whether as a creator or an appreciator, often demands complete presence in the here and now, nurturing a state of flow and mindfulness. Lydia G. Fogo, in her Honors Thesis titled “Enhancing Mindfulness through Engagement with Visual Arts” conducted at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, substantiated that by viewing artwork can indeed elevate mindfulness and amplify one’s self-awareness.
7. Social Connection and Community Building
Participating in art-related activities can facilitate social interaction and the formation of a sense of community. Whether through art classes, workshops, or group exhibitions, individuals can connect with others who share their creative interests. Research published in the journal “National Library of Medicine” highlights the positive impact of social interactions facilitated by art-related experiences on psychological well-being. “Findings show positive results on physical, social, and psychological wellbeing (Kitwana, 2014; Moe, 2014; Feinberg et al., 2016; O’Brien, 2016; Schroeder et al., 2017; Atkins et al., 2018; Campbell, 2019).”
These compelling studies undeniably highlight that art is one of the essential pillars for supporting the physical, social, and psychological well-being of countless individuals. Depriving ourselves of art’s enriching influence could prove gravely detrimental.
8. Improved Motor Skills and Coordination
Participating in artistic endeavors like painting, drawing, or sculpture necessitates the utilization of fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Consistent engagement in these creative pursuits can significantly enhance these essential skills.
Research conducted by Tatiana J. Miranda Orama at Leslie University, titled “Benefits to Motor Development of Preschool-Age Children in the Screen Era Preschool-Age Children in the Screen,” demonstrates that engaging in artistic activities, particularly in natural outdoor settings, can effectively counteract excessive screen time. This engagement fosters the development of motor skills, thereby benefiting not only artistic pursuits but also everyday tasks requiring precision. Without the opportunity to engage in art, there is a risk of experiencing a significant decline or delay in the development of these crucial skills, potentially impacting various learning styles.
9. Enhanced Brain Plasticity
Neuroplasticity, the brain’s remarkable capacity to restructure itself and establish new connections, plays a pivotal role in the process of learning and adapting to novel experiences. The appreciation of art is a testament to this phenomenon.
In a thought-provoking article titled “How Art Shapes the Brain,” published by the University of Sydney, the transformative effects of engaging in creative pursuits and the act of appreciating art on brain plasticity are explored. This exploration underscores how participation in artistic endeavors and the cultivation of an appreciation for art can elevate brain plasticity, fostering cognitive flexibility, and ultimately contributing to sustained cognitive well-being throughout one’s lifetime. Importantly, it is emphasized that these benefits are not constrained by age.
One remarkable initiative that exemplifies the power of art in enhancing neuroplasticity is the collaborative effort between Sharon and her colleagues with the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). Together, they embarked on a comprehensive three-year research project known as “Artful,” designed to assess the capacity of art and creativity to stimulate neuroplasticity in individuals living with dementia.
Enhancing neuroplasticity through engagement with art offers a transformative opportunity to reshape our perceptions and actions, enabling us to recognize the profound significance of art in urban landscapes, public monuments, historic landmarks, and architectural marvels. Whether actively crafting art or simply immersing oneself in its beauty, these experiences can unlock the limitless potential of your imagination, inspiring thoughts and possibilities you never before envisioned.
A perfect example is when Nadrian Seeman, a New York University professor, remembered a painting by artist MC Escher titled “Depth.” This piece of art helped him visualize how DNA junctions work. Which led to several branches of research now being conducted in more than 50 labs around the world.
This is a small snippet illustrating professor Seemans epiphany, if you have time the full article is here. “One day at the local pub, Seeman was thinking about DNA junctions — created when strands of different DNA double helixes are unzipped and stuck together to form branched intersections — when an image by M.C. Escher popped into his head. The illustration, titled “Depth,” depicts fish swimming in a regular pattern with other fish lined up above, below, in front, and behind. He realized that if he combined the right strands of nucleotides, their sticky ends would meet up and they would automatically conform to a repeating three-dimensional grid of six-arm junctions, just like Escher’s fish.
“When I had that epiphany in the bar, I had been doing a lot of things that to me were really neat, but it wasn’t me,” Seeman recalls. “Crystallography was fun, and I was good at it, but something clicked in me that said, ‘This is what I’ve got to spend the rest of my life doing.’ ” Controlling matter on a fine scale using DNA had the analytical components of crystallography, but he saw considerably more potential for creativity.”
10. Cardiovascular Health Benefits
It’s truly astonishing how art appreciation can profoundly influence your cardiovascular health. While various forms of artwork have been linked to cardiovascular health improvements, it’s particularly noteworthy that nature-themed artwork seems to have the most substantial impact.
Remarkably, as stated in an article by the University of Vienna, even very brief moments spent viewing such art can yield significant benefits, including a reduction in negative mood, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness, along with an enhancement in overall subjective well-being.
These findings are on par with the positive outcomes observed in other interventions, such as immersive nature experiences and visits to traditional art galleries. What these studies unmistakably reveal is that the more individuals perceive art as meaningful or beautiful, and the more positive emotions they experience while engaging with it, the greater the potential health benefits they can reap.
According to the article, “Evidence for the effects of viewing visual artworks on stress outcomes: a scoping review” on the National Library of Medicine found that individuals who engaged in art viewing experienced improved cardiovascular parameters, including lower heart rates and reduced cortisol levels. This suggests that the emotional and physiological responses triggered by art can positively influence heart health.
To conclude, it’s clear art isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential component of a well-rounded life. The detrimental repercussions of neglecting art in one’s life can be profound. The findings from our research are just a glimpse of the extensive repercussions. The absence of art in one’s life can lead to serious consequences, including emotional stagnation, heightened stress, diminished creativity, reduced brain adaptability, elevated blood pressure and cortisol levels, to name a few.
To combat these consequences, we would love to know what your thoughts are. Some of the obvious things are to find an artist that creates artwork that speaks to you, speaks to your soul and make an effort to incorporate that art into your daily routine. Embrace art by visiting galleries, exploring local artists, exploring art museums, or even take up a creative hobby yourself. By doing so, you’ll enrich your life and tap into the profound benefits that art has to offer.
Incorporating art into your life can unlock a myriad of wellness benefits that are firmly rooted in scientific research. From stress reduction and mood enhancement to improved cognitive function and cardiovascular health, the transformative power of art is a holistic approach to well-being that deserves more recognition. So, whether you’re picking up a paintbrush, visiting an art gallery, or admiring your favorite local artist, remember that each creative endeavor you undertake has the potential to positively transform your health.
