By Jennifer Walsh
According to the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, participating in an art program can help lower stress. Indeed, art has a way to heal, no matter which outlet you choose. There are so many ways to experience art in our everyday lives—from dancing, painting, sculpting, photography, graphic design, music, and more. So, why not try your hand at something new or something you’ve always had a passion for? Your body will thank you for it.
Don’t miss a beat! Click HERE to become a BELLA Insider!
1. JUST START CREATING
You don’t need to be an artist to get the health benefits of doing something creative. Taking an art or photography class or simply grabbing a paint brush for the sheer joy of it can lower blood pressure and decrease depression. Participating in group art activities like woodwork, jewelry making, writing, knitting, and more can even boost the immune system. There is no better time to get creative and receive a giant helping of endorphins to boost your health.
2. MAKE YOUR HOTEL VISIT COUNT
Many wellness hotels understand the key health benefits of incorporating nature not only throughout the space but also on property grounds. Some are even offering art tours as part of their wellness offerings. Hotels like the Carrillon Wellness Resort in Miami takes visitors on a group outing to Wynwood Walls, an outdoor local art installation. Further north, the Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club in Sloatsburg, NY, not only boasts beautiful art around the property, it also offers local art tours to engage and see the beauty of art mixed with the local natural landscape that changes throughout the seasons.
CarillonHotel.com, ValleyRockInn.com
3. CHECK OUT A LOCAL MUSEUM
We know that museums are set up with new COVID-19 guidelines, but it doesn’t have to stop you from exploring the museums in your town. Did you know that the act of viewing beautiful art has a positive effect on the mental state? Psychologist Shilagh Mirgain, Ph.D. explains: “Awe has many important implications for our well-being. Experiencing awe can give us a sense of hope and provide a feeling of fulfillment.”
4. START EARLY
When involved in music, dance, or art, children tend to adapt better at group activities as they age. The creativity to move and listen allows them to feel confident and secure in their own creativity. That also applies to adults! The more we are involved in such artful activities, the more we will want to continue to do and learn more.
5. PICK UP A COLORING BOOK
Adult coloring book sales have been on the rise over the past five years and even more so in 2020 due to stress of the pandemic. They have even been compared to a meditative exercise as they help relax anxiety and aid in stress reduction. Coloring doesn’t require a lot of time, but it’s an ideal way for your brain to flow more freely and allow the artist in you to just relax and create what you want.
LIVE YOUR MOST BELLA LIFE!
BELLA Magazine is a national subscription- and newsstand-based lifestyle publication offering a curated guide to fashion, beauty, health, philanthropy, arts and culture, cuisine, celebrities, and entertainment.
At BELLA, we spotlight the ideal that Life Is BEAUTIFUL!
Don’t miss a beat! Subscribe + #follow @bellamag.co!
