Art & Psychological Well-being
As more individuals are engaging in the busy schedules of their professional, their psychological well-being often takes the back seat. Consequently, there are increasing cases of mental illnesses such as depression, stress, anxiety among others.
While therapists are coming up with novel ways to help those in need, several researchers have presented empirical studies stating the role of art in the process. They elaborate on how engaging in art positively impacts the mental health of individuals.
Curated below is a list of the interesting arguments presented by mental health experts about how inculcating art in your life can provide diverse benefits. Here is why developing an artistic inclination can be of great help to your psychological well-being.
Provides Perspective
How would you feel when you see a marvelous piece of art such as the Mona Lisa? Your first reaction might be that of absolute awe at the splendid masterpiece that had been painted by legendary painter Leonardo Da Vinci.
Thereafter, you will think about the artistic process that might have gone behind creating such beautiful artwork. Furthermore, you would want to learn more about the initial inspiration behind painting it and even speculate multiple interpretations.
Through these processes, you would be stimulating your mind to think about myriad perspectives. You might even be gripped by an exhilarating sense of inquisitiveness to learn more about the painting. Thus, these processes will collectively ensure a healthy mind.
Promotes Creativity
Many famous artists such as Vincent Van Gogh and Edvard Munch have struggled with their internal battles and that is explicitly reflected through their paintings. For instance, several experts believe that Munch’s masterpiece ‘The Scream’ is an embodiment of his depleting mental wellness.
However, psychologists argue that art is one of the most therapeutic experienced for a tormented mind. Several studies conducted by leading Universities state that engaging in art significantly reduces signs of depression and anxiety, and even help in uplifting the self-esteem of the individual.
These results can be attributed to the fact that art allows a person to creatively express themselves without any inhibitions. These results are substantiated by a report published by WHO in 2019 which states that creative arts help an individual to regulate their emotions better.
Aids in Communication
Some individuals may have insecurities about how to effectively communicate their feelings to the other person. This may be attributed to their personality, as they may be introverts, or it may even be due to any mental illness.
However, many studies have concluded that expressing oneself through art is indeed an effective way of communicating their innermost feelings and inhibitions. This is because unlike language, art does not restrict itself within a limited combination of words for expression.
This has led to the emergence of a new school of therapy, known as art therapy. Through this novel method, the individuals are allowed to paint their own pieces of art or interpret other artworks as per their own freedom. This paves way for them to communicate their honest opinions without any inhibitions or biases.
Provides Motivation
Each splendid piece of art narrates its own story that you can explore if you reckon carefully. For example, The Last Supper is a classic painting that resonates with the idea of hope, friendship, faith, and belief.
More often than not, individuals who experience mental illnesses lack the motivation to get through their days. Looking at such surreal pieces of art, each of them expressing a message of hope and positivity may help in improving the psychological well-being.
Several researchers suggest that inculcating elements of positivity and motivation throughout your daily routine reduces stress. Therefore, possessing such mesmerizing pieces of art can serve as a great positive reinforcement when you are having a bad day.
Lifts your Mood
Indulging in any hobby is always a great idea as it helps you to take a much-required break from the monotonous routine of our lives. They help you to experience a sense of accomplishment and happiness after you have devoted quality time to it.
Moreover, being around such splendid pieces of artwork may motivate you to create something of your won as well. Researches state that this motivation increases the production of dopamine, resulting in increased drive and motivation.
Thus, whenever you are having a lousy day, you can look up some paintings by your favorite painters and create some artwork inspired by them. Your creations do not necessarily have to be masterpieces, but they are sure to stimulate better mental health.
Connects the Community
Loneliness is another major contributor to the depletion of the psychological well-being of an individual. However, given our hectic lifestyles, we seldom find time to connect with our friends and family, and thus we are often stuck in the vicious cycle of loneliness.
Many leading psychologists have stressed the importance of developing a feeling of community to drive away from this loneliness. Art is one of the best ways to connect with like-minded individuals and engage in insightful discussions about common interests.
Imagine discussing the mesmerizing intricacies of Waterhouse’s creation over a cup of coffee with a fellow art enthusiast. Such conversations will not only drive away your loneliness but help you to learn more about your favorite pieces of art as well.
The Bottom Line
Being around art is a great way to boost your psychological well-being and ensure a positive outlook towards life. Hanging beautiful paintings on the walls of your rooms or hallway is a great way to initiate an everlasting connection with art.
A great place where you can procure authentic reproductions of such marvelous artworks is the 1st Art Gallery. They have a myriad collection of paintings that are sure to aid your psychological well-being.
