Art and creativity are not only enjoyable, but also beneficial for our health and well-being. Whether it’s painting, writing, dancing, or singing, engaging in creative activities can help us express ourselves, cope with stress, and enhance our mood. In this article, we will explore some of the ways that art and creativity positively impact our mental well-being.
Art and Creativity Relieve Stress and Anxiety
One of the most common benefits of art and creativity is that they can reduce and even prevent stress. According to a study by Verywell Mind1, expressing yourself through artistic and creative activities is like a prescription for your mental health. Turning to creativity has been proven in extensive research to relieve both stress and anxiety. Creativity also helps lessen the shame, anger, and depression felt by those who have experienced trauma.
For example, the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center has an art therapy program for soldiers with PTSD. Veterans often find it difficult to express their trauma verbally. Art therapy manager Tammy Shella, PhD, ATR-BC, says, “Through art therapy, patients can convey how they really feel on the inside and reveal things that they weren’t comfortable sharing with the world.”1
Art and Creativity Put You in a Flow State
Another benefit of art and creativity is that they can put you in a flow state. This is a state of optimal attention and focus, where you are fully immersed in what you are doing and lose track of time. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, one of the cofounders of positive psychology, calls this “flow state.” He says that during this time, we are more mindful and relaxed. This allows us to feel more positive and brings a sense of accomplishment.1
People who experience flow report higher levels of creativity, productivity, and happiness. Some examples of activities that can induce flow are writing in your journal, creating postcards out of your recent photographs, or dancing to your favorite band.
Art and Creativity Enhance Your Brain Function
Art and creativity can also improve your brain function by increasing connectivity and creating new neural pathways. Laurel Healy, LCSW, says, “Engaging in a creative process, like singing, dancing, painting or drawing, has full body benefits. When we focus on something that is challenging and/or fun, we make new neuropathways, increasing connectivity in the brain. Increased connectivity, especially in the left prefrontal cortex of the brain, makes us more emotionally resilient in a way that is similar to what occurs when we meditate.”1
Art and creativity can also stimulate different parts of the brain that are responsible for memory, language, emotion, and cognition. For example, playing an instrument can activate both the left and right hemispheres of the brain, enhancing your analytical and creative skills. Writing can improve your verbal communication and memory recall. Painting can boost your visual-spatial abilities and fine motor skills.
Art and Creativity Boost Your Self-Esteem
Finally, art and creativity can boost your self-esteem by giving you a sense of achievement and identity. When you create something that is meaningful to you or that reflects your personal style, you are affirming your values and expressing your uniqueness. You are also developing new skills and overcoming challenges that can make you feel more confident and capable.
Art and creativity can also help you connect with others who share your interests or appreciate your work. This can foster a sense of belonging and social support that can enhance your well-being.
Art and creativity are not only fun hobbies but also powerful tools for improving your mental well-being. By engaging in artistic and creative activities regularly, you can reap the benefits of stress relief, flow state, brain enhancement, and self-esteem boost. So why not try something new today? Whether it’s painting a picture, writing a poem, or singing a song, you might be surprised by how much happier you feel.
