Why NeuroArts Matters: Creativity for Well Being

Have you ever noticed how you feel after spending time painting, listening to music, or enjoying something beautiful?

NeuroArts is an emerging science that explores how the arts and creativity and our experiences of beauty affect the brain, body, and behavior. It brings together research from neuroscience and other fields to understand how creative experiences can support well-being and learning.

In Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform us, Susan Magsamen and Ivey Ros share research and stories about the many ways the arts can enrich our lives. Their book reminds us that creativity is something we can all welcome into our everyday routines.

For me, watercolor, acrylic painting, and sketching all offer a gentle invitation to slow down and pay attention. MINDFULNESS--being in the present moment. Watching color mingle, noticing the shape of a leaf, or simply enjoying the company of others while we paint can make space for curiosity, joy, and connection to the present moment.

You don't have to be an experienced artist to begin. Pick up a pencil, sketch or paint for 17

mins. everday. 17 mins according to research is the amount of time it takes to start rewiring your brain.

For further reading: Magsamen, Susan and Ivy Ross. Your Brain on Art: How the Arts Transform us. Random House, 2023.