Health Benefits of Art Therapy

With it being preventative health month, this is second in a series of blog articles this month speaking to holistic approaches in supporting wellbeing, and maintaining health as a preventative strategy! This article focuses on ways art therapy supports physical health when mental health is nurtured. 

1. Boosts mood. One of the “happiness” feel-good chemicals dopamine has been shown by research to increase in the art making process. Mitchell (2012) shares the experience of viewing art having similar brain activity to those experiencing love.
2. Reduces Cortisol. A pilot study found that adults had a statistically significant reduction in cortisol levels in a 45-minute art making session (Kaimal et al, 2016). Martin et al. (2018) in a review of 37 studies found 81% had significant reduction in stress for participants.  
3. Lowers blood pressure. A study examining creative arts therapy on stress levels and blood pressure found participants had a decrease in stress and blood pressure levels (Utami et al., 2021). Engaging in art therapy provides a relaxing effect, and Harvard Health (2023) speaks to the impact of practices that calm the mind can also lower blood pressure.

A final note from Stuckey & Nobel (2011) who speak about the potential of engagement with creative activities to contribute to reducing stress and depression, and “serving as a vehicle for alleviating the burden of chronic disease”.

If you need additional support reach out to me, I am Nicole Levy, and I am here as your helping hand, let’s get started, book your complimentary no pressure initial consult today https://www.mindfulhealingjourney.ca/#/
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