7 Science-Backed Benefits of Art Therapy
Krima is a multi-skilled journalist and writer with extensive print, broadcast, online, and digital experience.
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By definition, art is the expression of creativity. But, turning your thoughts into something real is not the only thing art has to offer. It can have a number of benefits, including therapeutic ones. If this doesn’t seem plausible, you should know that those benefits are backed by science.
Numerous studies confirm that art benefits the human brain and emotions. It puts the mind in the 5th gear, while also promoting positive emotions. Because it turns dark thoughts into positive action, art is often used as therapy.
In fact, art therapy is recommended for those struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, and many other issues. If you’re not sure that this is what you need, you need to take a look at some of the biggest benefits of art therapy, all of which are backed by science.
1. Art Therapy Alleviates Symptoms of Depression
Being creative makes us feel happy. And that’s exactly what art will do for you. If you’ve been struggling with depression, art therapy will give you a reason to get up in the morning.
Don’t trust us? There are many scientific studies that show that there’s a link between art and happiness. Making art helps establish the right chemical balance in the brain, which could be disrupted by depression and similar conditions.
2. Discipline
You can’t create art without hard work. Inspiration won’t come to you when you order it to come; instead, you need to summon it by working hard on your project.
3. Art Improves Your Communication Skills
Because it allows you to express yourself through creating artwork, art can also teach you how to express yourself in communication with other people.
4. Art Reduces Stress
Art promotes positive energy in people while keeping bad emotions away. Furthermore, by focusing on your work, you will forget all the bad stuff that might be going on in your life. The result is that your stress levels are going to plummet.
6. Art Improves Your Self-Esteem
The fact is that art makes you feel good about yourself. Once you create something you like, you will feel proud. And if you can be successful at art, it means that you can be successful in everything else as well.
7. Art Provides Positive Distraction
Art therapy is great for those suffering from anxiety or dealing with a trauma. The reason why this is the case is that making art helps you forget about the negative thoughts and focus on creativity.
It also has benefits on your physical health by treating issues like insomnia. For example, if you’re having trouble falling asleep due to anxiety, art therapy will make you forget about your worries and will calm you down.
5. Art Makes You Smarter
Art therapy will improve your problem-solving skills. The thing is that art promotes lateral thinking.
Basically, in order to be creative, you need to make your mind think outside the box. And once you train your mind to do that, you will be able to use that skill to find creative solutions to real-life problems as well.
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and does not substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, and/or dietary advice from a licensed health professional. Drugs, supplements, and natural remedies may have dangerous side effects. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a qualified provider on an individual basis. Seek immediate help if you are experiencing a medical emergency.
