At the time, Dr. Piroska Östlin emphasized that “integrating art into a person’s daily life, through activities such as dancing, singing, or visiting museums and concerts, offered an additional lever to strengthen physical and mental well-being.” Furthermore, in November 2019, the World Health Organization published a report that highlighted, for the first time, the positive effects of art on our physical and mental health.
Numerous studies have been conducted since then, demonstrating that art, in all its forms, possesses a unique ability to positively influence our lives. Whether it’s painting, music, dance, or sculpture, art enriches our daily lives, broadens our perception of life, and plays an essential role in improving our mental and physical health.
How does art activate our brain and improve our health?
Louise Bourgeois said that art protects our mental health. When we look at a work of art, our brain activates to better perceive the shapes and colors, associate what we perceive with emotions, and stimulate our “mirror neurons,” which promote learning, empathy, and social connections.
Jean-Pierre Changeux, a neurobiologist, explains how our brain reacts to beauty. When we look at a work of art, the light it reflects is transformed by the retina into electrical signals. These signals travel through the brain to the prefrontal cortex, triggering a release of dopamine, the pleasure hormone. This activates the emotion circuits and makes art a source of well-being. “Beauty is essential to human beings,” he emphasizes, because it makes us feel good.
Art acts as a powerful stress reliever, offering an effective way to release anxiety. At Vullierens Castle, the gardens house numerous sculptures, and art exhibitions are regularly organized there, inviting visitors to relax and unwind.
Art as a Natural Remedy Against Stress
Neuroscience confirms that art has a direct effect on our brain. According to neurologist Pierre Lemarquis, “art caresses our brain.” Looking at a work of art stimulates reason, awakens our empathy neurons, and activates the area linked to facial recognition: looking at a beautiful painting is like seeing a loved one, and this has a positive impact on our health. These effects improve our well-being. A recent study shows that visiting cultural sites reduces the risk of depression by up to 48% for those who go every month. Vullierens Castle opens its gardens to visitors from April to October. This cultural outing, of exceptional beauty, awakens the senses thanks to its art and sculptures in particular, but not only. Its flowers, themed gardens, and vast green spaces contribute significantly to the experience and its benefits.
Art Therapy: Art in the Service of Emotional Healing
Art therapy consists of using different artistic techniques for therapeutic purposes. This psychotherapeutic approach is based on the use of various media such as drawing, painting, sculpture, or other artistic forms. Its goal is to help the patient express their emotions, feelings, or fears through their creation.
Art, a Powerful Way to Restore Self-Confidence
Art works on several levels: it stimulates emotions, motor skills, and helps to strengthen self-confidence by offering contact with beauty and an openness to the world. Howard Steiger, a specialist in eating disorders at the Douglas Hospital in Montreal, conducted a study to evaluate the impact of a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts on people suffering from anorexia or bulimia. After a specific tour, a meal break, and a creative workshop, the results showed that, although the visit did not change their symptoms, it reduced their anxiety. Many found the creative workshop to be the most calming moment of the day, as they felt no pressure to perform.
The Influence of Colors and Light on Our Well-being
In 1903, Niels Ryberg Finsen demonstrated the benefits of light, which is now used to treat seasonal depression and insomnia. It regulates important hormones and nutrients. Colors, such as red and green, also have a calming effect on our perception. Artists like Léger and Matisse saw art as a source of well-being.
In conclusion, art plays an essential role in our mental and physical well-being. It reduces stress, strengthens self-confidence, and improves our health by stimulating our emotions and fostering self-expression. Integrating art into our daily lives is an effective way to enrich our lives and promote emotional and physical balance.