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This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice.
Need to let off some steam? Head to the nearest art gallery, and you can be sure to leave in a better mood than when you first arrived. Viewing art has many potential health benefits, and may be used to treat patients dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Our mind, body, and soul have an emotional response to art, which triggers in us a sense of overall well-being and relaxation. Viewing art may decrease stress levels, while making us more empathetic, positive, and creative.
Since ancient times, societies have been using art to deal with human suffering, a notion that’s been popularized with the development of art therapy. Art consumption has been on the rise since the outbreak of the pandemic, as a way to cope with emotions linked to loneliness and isolation, and bring more meaning to daily life. Let us have a look at the scientific reasons that make art deeply therapeutic, and how you can make the most out of your relationship with art. We will also be exploring the mental health benefits of two different art forms: Sacred Geometry and abstract art.
Art is the greatest healer
A brief history of Art as Medicine
Art has a long-term tradition of healing societies. Since its very beginning, art has been linked to the practice of medicine, and seen as a cure for various ailments. The philosophy of healing arts traces back to ancient Greek religion and mythology, with Asclepius, the god of medicine, appearing on vases and friezes.
The Navajo sand painting ceremonies appeared in the early 20th century and were used for healing purposes, reestablishing harmony in the patient’s life. The Medicine Man (traditional healer) uses gestural brushstrokes to create rich and vivid paintings depicting holy images. The abundance of colors has mood-enhancing effects and the process of creation is an immersive experience that connects the patient with oneness and the meaningfulness of life.
Images speak louder than words
No Words For (2022), Niki Hare
British artist Adrian Hill coined the term “art therapy” in 1942 when healing from tuberculosis in a sanatorium. Adrian Hill is considered by many to be the pioneer of this form of psychotherapy, which has been used by healthcare and mental health professionals ever since it was created. Art therapy is used to develop patients’ self-esteem, enhance cognitive thinking and reduce stress and anxiety through art making and creative thinking.
Art therapy engages the mind through sensory experiences, with an emphasis placed on emotions, creativity, and visual communication, acting as a vehicle for personal development and self-expression. Art enables us to check in with ourselves and communicate feelings, when words alone are not enough.
The science behind art’s healing properties
Why do we love art? Scientific research has proven that art interacts with our body in a way that may cause changing brain patterns. When looking at a piece of art, we may release serotonin, the feel-good chemical, which is linked to positive emotions and makes our mood feel more stable. Art may reduce the stress hormone known as cortisol and increase dopamine. You also get a break from thinking, which in turn makes you more relaxed. Art is a treat for your eyes and your brain!
Sacred Geometry
Relaxing symbols
Sacred Geometry might just become your new best friend. This ancient science assigns spiritual meaning to geometric shapes and proportions. The observation of such shapes can have many beneficial effects on the viewer. For example, the circle symbolizes wholeness, oneness, and eternity, while the square represents solidity, stability and strength.
Sacred geometry is particularly useful in the practice of meditation, with said symbols bringing our focus back to our initial intention. The study of sacred geometry is thought to be healing, by harmonizing the spirit, grounding the body, and activating and rebalancing our Chakras.
Harmony, geometry, and proportions
Leonardo da Vinci, famously known as the “Renaissance Man”, was one of the most important figures of Humanism. Leonardo da Vinci’s drawing of the “Vitruvian Man” was viewed to be an exploration into the human psyche, and the geometric shapes became emblematic of the power of geometry, as well as the search for balance and perfect proportions. The observation of the circle (called the “golden ratio”) makes us feel instantly at ease due to its divine proportions. The structural ideal of the “Vitruvian Man” embodies the complexity of human nature, and man’s harmonious existence in the world.
Mandala art
Mandala (2022), Christine Claudia Weber
Drawing mandalas has become a widespread popular practice, especially since lockdowns. This highly-symmetrical art form has been used since ancient times to help with spiritual growth and finding serenity. Mandalas are designed to focus attention on our highest self by acting as a mindfulness tool, and are thought to radiate healing energy by bringing the viewer on a path of enlightenment.
It is recommended to place mandalas in your bedroom for restorative sleep and creating positive energy. Designing and/or displaying mandalas in your home is a fun, creative and therapeutic journey for exploring your spiritual awareness and tapping into new ideas! Why not give it a go?
Abstract art can make a difference in our lives
Free your mind
Healing II (2022), Chong-yop Han
Vibrant colors, energetic brushstrokes, beautiful shapes… What’s not to like about abstract art? Besides being aesthetically pleasing, abstract art is an incredibly powerful tool for healing minds. The predominance of color is the key to understanding what makes this art form so profoundly therapeutic. Colors can stimulate the mind (e.g. blue inspires a feeling of serenity) and help individuals process difficult emotions, figure out healthier coping mechanisms and find more joy in day to day existence. Abstract art for the win!
A hopeful future with art
Visual arts consumption may be linked to an increase in emotional well-being and a decrease in anxiety. Art has been used a lot in spiritual healing rituals and more recently in psychotherapy but saw a renewed interest in everyday activities with the outbreak of COVID-19. Art helped mitigate the pandemic’s disastrous consequences on people’s mental health, when uncertainty and anxiety about our futures arose.
Engaging with the arts helps you live in the present moment, gives your brain a break from thinking, may decrease stress, anxiety and depression while boosting morale. Why not surround yourself with art, go to a gallery or try out an art class? It might just be what you were looking for to bring more joy and inner peace in your life!
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Inset Photos provided by Singulart.
Feature photo: iStockPhoto
