by MPC Foundation
Engaging with art, be it through creating or appreciating it, offers significant health benefits on par with those of exercise, nutrition, and sleep, according to experts. Research details that interacting with art can rewire our brains, releasing beneficial neurochemicals, hormones, and endorphins. As a result, more healthcare practitioners are prescribing arts engagement to treat various conditions, including obesity, heart disease, chronic pain, dementia, loneliness, and depression. Authors Susan Magsamen and Bianca Bosker emphasize that art is fundamental to human existence, not a luxury, and should be integrated into daily life for its profound impact on well-being.
The impact that art has goes beyond mere enjoyment; it has a profound physiological effect, activating multiple neurological and physiological systems simultaneously, engaging the brain, body, and spirit. Unlike viewing a photo of artwork on your phone, experiencing art in person, such as standing before a massive painting, can have powerful physical effects and sometimes cause strong emotional reactions. This idea is similar to meeting a person in real life versus online. Engaging with art can break our usual thinking patterns, giving us fresh ideas and making us better at handling stress. Additionally, the process of making art, regardless of skill level, has been shown to reduce stress and improve cognitive functions, highlighting the importance of art in maintaining mental and physical health.
For those looking to incorporate art into their lives, the key is to engage with curiosity and attention. Simple practices like noticing details in a piece, recognizing how those details make you feel, or trying to understand the artist’s decisions behind certain actions can deepen one’s experience with art. You do not need to be an art expert or create museum-worthy pieces to benefit; Magsamen points out that a monthly art experience can extend your life by up to ten years. The emphasis should be on the process of understanding the art rather than the product itself, allowing for a richer, more fulfilling life through the regular practice of art.
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