Scribbling patches of waxy color on a coloring book is an iconic childhood pastime, but coloring books designed for adults are popping up in stores everywhere. Their popularity may seem strange to some, but many find coloring a relaxing and calming activity that can transport a person back to a simple, sweet time in life – like a childhood afternoon at the kitchen table. It’s a simple, mindless diversion and its fun.
But not only is coloring fun, it could be good for your health. A collection of 100 studies regarding the benefits of music, visual arts, dance and writing conclude that creative expression has a powerful positive impact on health and well-being.
Most of the studies reflect that participation or engagement in the arts “have a variety of outcomes including a decrease in depressive symptoms, an increase in positive emotions, reduction in stress responses, and, in some cases, even improvements in immune system functioning; visual art therapy, for example, is trending toward many of these health gains and more,” stated Dr. Cathy Malchiodi in a recent article.
Although engagement in the arts as a viewer can have a positive impact, studies have
also shown that active participation is even more powerful. Creating art stimulates the brain in a way that consuming someone else’s art cannot. Creating engages your mind in an active, problem-solving way and gives you a break from your thoughts, from your worries. When fully immersed in creating, the brain is actively stimulated.
A study conducted by the Mayo Clinic revealed that people who engage in art in middle and old age may delay cognitive decline as they age. These findings underscore the idea that it is possible to build a “cognitive reserve” through engaging in novel, creative experiences that have a protective effect on the brain. According to the principle investigator, “Our study supports the idea that engaging the mind may protect neurons, or the building blocks of the brain, from dying, stimulate growth of new neurons, or may help recruit new neurons to maintain cognitive activities in old age”.
Granted, many adults are hesitant to pick up any art medium for fear of appearing childish, or being apprehensive that the “quality” of their spontaneous expressions will be judged. That being said, art should be a safe place to express feelings, both hopes and fears – a private place to find and explore yourself. Besides, these activities don’t have to produce fine art to serve you well. You can quilt, draw, paint, design furniture, engage in creative writing, take photos, arrange flowers, work with wood – any medium that you enjoy working with can create the positive effects.
Your physical health can be improved by making choices such as eating a variety of nutritious foods and by getting enough exercise. Choices can impact mental health as well. Make the choice – enjoy yourself through creative self-expression.
