When stressed, the thought of picking up a pencil or a paintbrush to create a work of art might be the last thing on your mind! However, engaging in the arts is actually one of the best ways to naturally reduce stress! When people experience challenges or changes in life, they often experience a physical and emotional reaction we call stress. It is one of the world’s largest health problems and can affect children, teens, and adults.
Stress can lead to anxiety, exhaustion, burnout and a multitude of physical, mental, and emotional health problems. Whether you’re dealing with a busy schedule, new encounters, or undergoing mental, emotional, or physical health issues, a great way to combat stress is to create art. And here is why: Creativity reduces cortisol, boosts dopamine, can get rid of negative thoughts, and calm the mind. Adding art creation to the routine provides an enjoyable alternative to stress: The sense of well-being. Let’s explore a few reasons why.
The Cortisol Connection
Many studies suggest that peopole engaging in art can have physiological effects which reduce stress and promote well-being. In a study published in the Journal of Art Therapy, three-quarters of the participants experienced lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, while creating art for just 45 minutes. Stress levels were proved to be reduced by incorporating creativity into a stress management routine. The added benefit was that while engaged in art, the participants had something beautiful to show for their efforts.
Art: A Dopamine Booster
In studies conducted on the brain, patients showed that dopamine levels often increased while engaged in creative outlets such as art. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is often low in patients experiencing anxiety, depression, and excessive stress. Patients feel happier when engaged in art therapy as their dopamine levels increase. Furthermore, art therapy has become an important component of treatment for people with mental illnesses, such as chronic depression and anxiety.
Get In the Zone While Creating Art
The art making process requires the connection of mind and body. This connection clears the mind and promotes healing. The process of creating art involves being fully immersed in an energized focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in of the artistic process. This is sometimes known as “flow” or “being in the zone”. People creating art are often able to paint, draw or sculpt for a long periods of time. Even though they are cognitively engaged, they do not experience cognitive fatigue. Instead of feeling fatigue, being “in the zone” promotes a sense of calm and detachment from negative emotions.
Art is Self-Care
People who engage in creative activities such as drawing and painting are practicing a form of self-care. Artistic expression and art therapy has been proven effective for people experiencing anxiety and depression. Art can provide a release from difficult emotions and thoughts. In fact, participating in creative activities promotes feelings of self-esteem, self-worth and confidence. A study conducted in 2021 showed that engaging in creative pursuits was associated with lower stress levels. This was particularly evident during the COVID-19 epidemic as people turned to their creative side when they suddenly had the time to engage in personal self-care.
Art Helps Regulate Emotion
According to researchers, the process of creating art helps with emotion regulation. In turn, this can help lower anxiety. Creative activities can be a healthy distraction from stressors and worries. Engaging in a creative task can help shift a person’s focus away from negative thoughts. In fact, it can go so far as to promote feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction. It is difficult to hold on to fear and negative emotions while creating a piece of art.
The benefits of creating art are substantial. Although there may be a misconception that you must be a great artist in order to reap the benefits of creativity, this is not the case. Therapeutic benefits of art occur with every level of artist, beginner, intermediate or professional. Children, teens and adults can benefit. Incorporating art and creativity into a stress management routine, whether for yourself or for someone in your care, can be a beneficial and healthy way to reduce stress levels. So pick up that paintbrush, Sign up for an art class at Cordovan, play with some clay, or doodle your troubles away. Art is the most natural stress reliever.