Last night I hosted a workshop called Crafting for Mental Health. Participants included physician’s assistants, nurses, paramedics, pediatricians, lab techs, and administrators. We made Valentine-themed cards, and people who have been working within the same building (for years!) connected for the first time. The purpose of the event was to provide an opportunity to improve mood and lower stress through crafting, so in honor of Valentine’s Day, this post expands on the connection between art and mental health. Making art is a form of self care, and even if you don’t consider yourself an artist or regularly make art, by engaging creative activities (ie museums, festivals, etc.) you are bolstering your mind and spirit.
Art Reduces Stress
In 2016, researchers Ray and Muniz published results from an experiment in Art Therapy Journal. In their study, they found that cortisol levels dropped for 75% of participants during and after crafting. After crafting, participants felt they had learned something new, persevered through something challenging, and lost themselves in the process.
What is happening in our head when we make art?
When we make art, we use the cortex of the brain, which stimulates critical thinking and problem solving. As we use the cortex, more neuropathways are created, and we rely less upon the amygdala (the part of the brain responsible for flight or flight response). Achieving a “flow state” or being in “the moment” helps us to regulate or process our emotions. In addition, repetitive actions (like crafting or making art) release neurotransmitters that promote joy and a sense of well being, and being creative specifically stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for joy and pleasure (often associated with exercise).
If that’s not enough…
Research shows that arts and crafts:
- improve mood, confidence, and self esteem
- hone gross and fine motor skills
- slow cognitive decline
- lower blood pressure
Making art is not only fun, it’s good for you. Happy Valentine’s Day.