Both physical and mental health can be supported by participating in art, in its countless forms, either as artist or as observer. There is no requirement for either talent or training; simple sewing, doodling or even humming will do the trick. A mere 20 minutes of any of these appears to quiet anxiety, lift negative moods, and generally cheer one up.
Authors Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross offer a rich book explaining the benefits of art on the human brain and mind. Published by Random House in 2023, “Your Brain on Art” explores the recent science of Neuroarts or Neuroaesthetics and how participating in art can increase health and wellness, even increasing longevity by as much as 10 years.
As a tool for moving from feeling less than good to feeling better, it’s an amazing and easy way to get a lift. Just spend 20 minutes on art.