We all love art. We all admire him. Whether we visit exhibitions, galleries, museums, or simply enjoy it in the comfort of our own home, art not only brings us satisfaction, but also satisfies our inner, more refined soul needs. Did you know that behind our subconscious attraction to art is a complex bouquet of scientifically determined reasons for it? In addition, this hobby has a very beneficial effect on our health.
Impact on the psyche
Contemplating a work of art allows the mind to calm down as it tries to make sense of what is depicted. In this way, a state close to the meditative one is achieved. At such times, one can completely forget one's life's adversities as well as one's surroundings. This specific state of mind can act as a "mental detox", a kind of cleansing of the consciousness, which in turn is extremely liberating, mediating thought processes and unlocking mechanisms of happiness.
Looking at beautiful landscape paintings has a similar effect on the psyche and body as actually spending time in nature. Spending time in the company of works of art can improve your mood, slow down your pace, and set you on a relaxing wave, promptly limiting the damage from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Art reduces stress, which in turn leads to a strengthening of the immune system, and from there to a feeling of happiness.
Various studies have shown that art therapy is a natural way to treat anxiety and depression. But if art-making and creativity aren't your thing, you'll get the same beneficial effect from looking at artwork. In addition, visual art has an anti-inflammatory effect. A study by the University of California at Berkeley proves that art induces positive emotions that reduce proteins that cause inflammation in the body.
Looking at pictures increases brain activity
Now science practically proves what art lovers have felt and known for a long time. Research in the field of neuroaesthetics confirms that art is actually good for the brain. Observing the reactions and emotions of individual individuals caused by the direct impact of art objects, scientists come to the conclusion that paintings can stimulate critical thinking, mediate the comparison of behavioral patterns, support the decision-making process, the generation of ideas, etc. ..
Art can help you heal emotionally
Looking at art also helps us explore our hidden emotions and long-forgotten experiences and allows us to heal, says psychologist and poet Joan Cusack Handler. "While active participation in the creation of art involves creative expression of what one feels, whether consciously or unconsciously, so participation in another's experience and art helps us access those feelings within ourselves," explains Dr. Handler.
Another person's outwardly expressed emotions can go a long way in helping us recognize our own inner demons. Their struggle is our struggle, and this realization can make us see that we are not so different from others after all, and that others can identify with our suffering.
Another study, published in the Journal for Organizational Psychology, found that viewing abstract romantic paintings boosted mood and helped reduce the average length of hospital stay. Art accelerates the postoperative recovery process.
In addition, contemplating beautiful pictures increases blood flow to the brain, similar to the effect of looking at someone we love. According to research by University College London. "When you look at art - whether it's a landscape, still life, abstraction or portrait - this same center of the brain is activated, which is associated with the feeling of pleasure", says neurobiologist Professor Semir Zeki, Head of the study.
Surrounding yourself and your loved ones with art is an act of love and concern. Love for them and for yourself. Art can not only soothe the mind and soul when it needs it, but also enhance your lifestyle by enhancing the overall look of your home.
Let's fill our homes with beautiful objects so that we can all benefit from their beneficial effects!
Sources:
Mozayeni, Simin, Maryalice Citera, and Parisa Amirmostofian. 2020. “Cost-Benefit Analysis of Mood Uplifting Paintings in Hospitals”. Journal of Organizational Psychology 20 (1). https://doi.org/10.33423/jop.v20i1.2757.
