The mental health benefits of art are numerous, and have been supported by study after study. The creative process is a joyful one for most people, as the freedom that creativity allows promotes mindfulness and a sense of peace and satisfaction. While many artists and art lovers can attest to the feelings of joy they experience while engaging in their creative hobby, this happiness can be backed up by science. Not only does creating art relieve stress, focus your mind, and boost self-esteem, it can improve the physical chemistry of your brain!
As modern science tells us, human beings are basically
controlled by the chemicals in our brains.
The presence of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and the balance of
the three determines how motivated, how alert, how obsessive, how anxious, how
happy or sad we are; they dictate the essence of our being. It has been proven that creating or viewing
art increases dopamine in the brain, creating feelings similar to that of
romantic love. Everyone loves a dopamine
rush, but in individuals experiencing emotional disabilities, this can be
especially effective. Both depression
and anxiety are caused by a lack of dopamine in the brain, so that extra boost
of dopamine that art can provide can make a tremendous difference in the life
of someone experiencing one of these diseases.
A study at the University of Erlangen Hospital in Germany
explored the effects of visual art production on brain function in which they
studied two groups, one of which who was enrolled in a weekly drawing and
painting class, the other in an art history class. After the ten week testing period had
concluded, the drawing and painting group showed significantly improved
psychological resistance, meaning they experienced increased self-awareness and
improved memory and thought processes. While
this all may sound very scientific, the results are simple; art is good for
your brain! It helps you to see the world in a different way, to be more aware
of what is happening around you and helps you to respond to it in a more
thoughtful way. Art literally helps you
clean out the cobwebs in your brain.
Additionally, the improved psychological resistance helps
foster healthier brain tissue, which is very
important for us as we age. Consistent
exposure to creativity can help us stay sharp into our eighties and nineties,
and who wouldn’t want that?
Here at We Care Arts, we believe in harnessing the healing
powers of art. Through a variety of
creative outlets, our artists improve their physical and cognitive functions,
gain confidence in their creative abilities, and enjoy the positive mental benefits
of collaborating on creative projects.
Our artists are also able to improve their communication skills and express themselves in ways they might not otherwise be able to. Any kind of art, be it photography, crafting, painting, or simple doodling, stimulates different parts of the brain.
Our artists are also able to improve their communication skills and express themselves in ways they might not otherwise be able to. Any kind of art, be it photography, crafting, painting, or simple doodling, stimulates different parts of the brain.
Helping people increase confidence and independence through
art is the root of the mission at We Care, but as research continues to roll
in, we are learning that our mission has far more perks than just helping
people fall in love with the creative process and having tons of fun. We are helping people improve their brains,
and we love that! The best part is,
anyone can do this! So if you’re having
a bad day, are in a slump, or are just looking to make a change in your life, start
a project! It doesn’t have to be too
ambitious, even a simple doodle can do the trick.
Happy creating!
If you think this is as interesting as we do, follow some of
the links below and feed that healthy brain of yours!
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