A Review of ‘How the Arts Can Benefit Your Mental Health (No Talent Required) ‘
The following is a review of the May 22, 2023 Article by Christina Caron for The New York Times:
Many people struggle with their mental health, especially during challenging times like the pandemic, but there is hope. Research shows that creating and enjoying art can improve your mood, reduce stress, and enhance your wellbeing. a recent article by Christina Karen, explores some of the simple ways to elevate your mood with the arts, such as drawing, coloring, singing, or listening to music.
These activities can help you cope, express yourself, and find joy. But art can also do more than that. It can repair the social fabric of our nation and heal our communities. That's the vision of One Nation, one project, an organization that is launching a national arts and wellness initiative in July, 2024.
This initiative will bring together artists, local governments, and health providers to create art projects that answer the question, how do we heal? Each site will have a different and unique artwork that reflects the needs and aspirations of the community. The initiative will also study how art affects health, social, and civic outcomes.
To learn more about One Nation, one project and how you can get involved visit One Nation one project.org. Remember, you are not alone. We are one nation, one project.
Key points from the article:
Psychiatrist Dr. Frank Clark found that writing poetry helped improve his mood and gave him an outlet when dealing with depression. Creating art can benefit mental health.
Drawing techniques like the "three drawing" method pioneered by Dr. James S. Gordon can encourage self-discovery and agency in healing. It involves making three quick drawings of yourself - first as you are, then with your biggest problem, and finally with the problem solved.
Coloring intricate patterns can help ease anxiety by tuning out distractions and staying focused in the moment. It's a form of meditation.
Listening to, playing, or singing music reduces cortisol and anxiety. During lockdowns, young adults said musical activities were most effective for feeling better.
Writing poetry, even simple haikus, can provide mental health benefits. Sharing poetry with others can also be healing.
The article provides tips for integrating creative activities like these into your life to elevate your mood through the power of art.
