It has been tested and proven over countless years that art adds meaning and purpose to life. It speaks of emotions that words are not sufficient to communicate. For the artist, it is an outpouring of feelings and an expression of what goes on inside their hearts and minds. For the lover of the arts, it offers inspiration and evokes many feelings that cannot be explained. From a beautiful art piece done with oil paint and canvas to a haunting melody created by a romantic composer, art reaches out and touches the soul.
Not surprisingly, art offers benefits that many may not even be aware of. The connections between art and mental health are numerous, whether through drawing, painting, playing music, sharing the word like Phil Fischer, or many other creative fields. Art therapy is a fantastic technique for expressing yourself when you don’t have the words to convey yourself. Below are some of those benefits that enhance your mental health and provide you with an overall sense of well-being.
Art reduces stress and anxiety
Everyone experiences stress and anxiety. It is normal to feel overwhelmed by everyday stressors, whether work-related or coming from other situations and experiences in your life. At one moment, you think that everything is going alright with the world. All of a sudden, something unexpected happens that catches you by surprise. Art helps you cope with stressful situations as you focus your attention on creating pieces rather than dwell on things beyond your control. It is the most effective distraction from negativity, keeping your mind busy with something productive. Painting, for instance, allows you the opportunity to express your innermost feelings. It acts as a release for pent-up emotions. After you finish a piece, you feel relieved from your earlier stress and take pride in what you have created.
Art boosts self-esteem
Not everyone is blessed to have the unique talent you do in whatever art form you are interested in and excel. Each time you compose a melody or create an art piece, you feel good about yourself. You know that you have done well, and that does a lot to boost your self-esteem. Many people do not have enough confidence in themselves and suffer quietly. However, they can recover from their lack of self-worth when they involve themselves with art. When people recognize and appreciate what you create, you enhance your self-confidence and feel that you have a unique purpose in life – that is to be an artist.
Art is a distraction from chronic pain
For people who are suffering from chronic pain, art can provide the relief they need. They can turn to it when they start to experience the pain that leads them to be depressed about their situation. The focus is diverted to the positive experience of creating something beautiful. They gain a sense of self-achievement, and their thoughts transform into something more positive rather than focusing on their pain. There is no time to feel depressed when you are busy with your art and feeling happy about what you accomplish.
If you haven’t tried your hand at any form of art, you may want to start considering it. It has the power to make you view life differently and see its beauty. It helps you have a more positive outlook and enriches your life in more ways than anything else can.