Why Making Art is Good for Your Mental Health

Creative expression is an aspect of life which reaps an endless amount of benefits. It allows you to communicate your thoughts and identity in an innovative way which provides visionary pleasure to yourself and others. But, did you know that creating art holds many advantages to your mental health?

Researcher in art therapy, Girija Kaimal states that, “Anything that engages your creative mind — the ability to make connections between unrelated things and imagine new ways to communicate — is good for you,".

Sima Eftekhary-Rad |Hunting Ground of, 2018 | Oil on Canvas |100 x 50cm

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

Research conducted by the ‘Journal of the American Art Therapy Association’ in 2016 found that even just 45 mins of making art lowered an adult's cortisol levels (cortisol is a hormone that helps the body lower stress). The same result was found in both experienced artists and people who simply had a hobby for art. This means you do not need a certain level of experience in art to enjoy the benefits that come with creating it. Making art is also a relaxing hobby which can help you momentarily escape reality and provide headspac

“Anything that engages your creative mind — the ability to make connections between unrelated things and imagine new ways to communicate — is good for you,"

2. Boosts dopamine levels

Creating a wonderful piece of artwork and being genuinely impressed with the result provides an individual with feelings of confidence and accomplishment. It can reveal to you a talent which you weren’t too convinced you had in the first place also, it encourages further and more frequent creative expression. An increase of dopamine in the brain means an increase of focus and concentration. This means you are simultaneously doing what you enjoy and plan ahead for the achievement of other goals.

The New UNE UP | Nicky Nodjoumi | Pencil on paper | 72 x 57 cm

3. Viewing art increases positive feelings

It is also possible to reap the benefits of creative expression through simply admiring art. Neurobiologist at UCL, Professor Semir Zeki found that simply viewing art can increase levels of pleasure strong enough to be compared to the feeling of falling in love. Additionally, a study of students at an art museum found that their critical thinking skills were improved. They also felt more empathetic towards those who lived in the past and more acceptance towards those who have different experiences to themselves.

Here at CISTA ARTS, we offer artwork from a range of different artists. Click on the link www.cistaarts.com/artworks to browse all our different pieces.