7 Ways Creating Art Benefits Your Brain March 7, 2016
Posted by nrhatch in Art & Photography, Happiness, Humor, Mindfulness.60 comments
Creative expression is good for us.
Art has helped people with anxiety, depression, addictions, PTSD, chronic pain, high blood pressure, bipolar disorder, and Alzheimer’s.
And it’s FUN!
Here are 7 Ways Creating Art Benefits Your Brain:
#1 Stress reduction ~ creating art gives your brain a break by focusing your mind and pushing worries aside.
It’s relaxing, meditative, and lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
#2 Art stimulates the brain to create new neurons and synapses, improving connections, communication, and memory.
#3 Art increases the “feel good” neurotransmitter, dopamine, which boosts drive, focus, and concentration. Dopamine helps ward off depression and protects the brain from aging.
#4 Art increases brain plasticity, fluid intelligence, IQ, and attention.
It enhances cognitive abilities and memory even for people with brain disorders.
#5 Art immerses us in the NOW as we go with the flow and enjoy the journey.
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” ~ Albert Einstein
#6 Art lets us forget our troubles and express our feelings.
#7 “Art washes from the soul the dust of every day life.” ~ Pablo Picasso
Aah . . . that’s better!
Related post: The Mental Health Benefits of Art for Everyone