13th April, 2024
The Growing Field of Neuroarts
I've been inspired this week by a book I'm reading called "Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform us". It talks about the growing field of neuroarts, gathering all the scientific research into the health benefits of creativity, the arts and aesthetic experiences.
If you struggle to give yourself time to be creative or lack the confidence to explore something creative for the first time, here are some findings from the book I hope will inspire you.
If you struggle to give yourself time to be creative or lack the confidence to explore something creative for the first time, here are some findings from the book I hope will inspire you.
Some Delightful Health Facts
One art experience per month can extend your life by ten years. (not only experiences where you are doing the creating, but also the experience of viewing art, music / theatre performances etc)
20 minutes doodling is enough to lower your cortisol levels. You could sit for your morning tea or coffee with a pen and paper and test the theory out. I had a go myself for today's newsletter (above pic)
20 minutes humming can lower your cortisol levels. The brilliant thing is, you can hum in the shower, in the car or while you cook..
Writing down your thoughts and feelings can improve mental and physical health. A good case to start journalling for wellbeing!
If there's anything on a creative level calling you, I encourage you to take one small action towards that calling. A first step might be to buy that notebook, visual dairy, paints or coloured pencils, google what exhibitions or classes are on in your area, design a space in your home that invites creativity, sing, dance, seek and read some poetry, listen to music that resonates with you, or simply get outside and find a place to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature - the worlds greatest artist of all time! (in my opinion anyway)
Remember. It's not being self-indulgent. It's supporting your health & wellbeing.
Remember. It's not being self-indulgent. It's supporting your health & wellbeing.