Can you recall a time when you were not focused on an endless list of to-dos and experienced the joy of life through your senses? Some of us may recall childhood when we had space to explore and create with a sense of freedom. For others, we may remember listening to music we enjoy, connecting with nature, or admiring a work of art. You may enjoy doodling, painting or making a collage.
I have always enjoyed art even though I never felt I had the talent or time to explore building art skills. I admire friends who are creative and engaged in regular art projects. I started drawing simple cartoons for my blog. I allowed myself to enjoy the process and did not focus on the outcome – which made it fun. (You may notice that I am definitely an amateur.) However, I have enjoyed creating a little space for art. It has enhanced my sense of JOYBeing – the joy of being alive. I hope to learn more about art and make it an integral part of my life.
In Your Brain on Art, authors Susan Magsamen and Ivy Ross show how activities from painting and dancing to expressive writing, architecture, and more are essential to our lives.
Magsamen and Ross share research that shows how engaging in an art project for as little as forty-five minutes reduces the stress hormone cortisol, no matter your skill level, and just one art experience per month can extend your life by ten years! They show how playing music enhances learning and builds cognitive skills; attuning to the vibrations of a tuning fork creates sound waves to counteract stress; and interactive exhibits dissolve the boundaries between art and viewers, engaging all of our senses and strengthening memory. In addition to prescribing forest bathing, where people are encouraged to spend time in nature, doctors are now suggesting museum visits to address loneliness, dementia, and many other physical and mental health concerns.
Engaging in art, whether we are doodling, coloring, working with clay, or simply experiencing art, can enhance the quality of our lives. Art can create a sense of community and support our health. I encourage you to add a few weekly minutes to engage with your senses, expand your wellbeing, and possibly extend your longevity.
What can you do this week to enliven your senses and enjoy connecting with the arts? I would love to hear your experience and what you notice.