Art Reduces Stress, Research Shows

"Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one." Stella Adler

What’s that thing in life that beats you down? You might be thinking, “One thing? Are you kidding? I wish there were only one thing beating me down!” How do you cope with the stress of modern life? Some people escape with drinking or entertainment. Other people may take up yoga or meditation. In some cases, the solution creates its own stressor when you feel guilty for not doing the thing that was supposed to make you feel better.

Some interesting new research shines a light on a relaxation technique that is fun and satisfying. Researchers have found what artists already know to be true: doing art reduces stress… REGARDLESS OF SKILL LEVEL.

Indeed, you don’t have to be Rembrandt to feel the benefits of doing art. Try it. Go find some makers or crayons lying around and draw something… anything… it doesn’t matter what. You can make colorful swirls. Just create. If you haven’t done any drawing since you were a kid, you may feel awkward at first. If that happens, follow the advice of Vincent Van Gogh, "If you hear a voice within you say, 'you cannot paint,' then by all means paint and that voice will be silenced."

You don’t have to show anyone the art you create if you’re afraid of criticism. You can make it just for you. Besides, it’s the process of creation that matters. You are producing, creating, exploring. Once you push past your initial trepidation, you’ll slip into the zone. The zone is a magical place where space and time cease to exist. You’ll lose track of time… and you won’t care because you’re enjoying yourself.

Conquer your Stress with Creativity

I’m leading a stress-conquering retreat to the Texas coast the weekend of May 19. Come down, hang out with like-minded people. Paint. Enjoy the beauty of the sky and water. See the world as an artist does. Learn more about this fantastic opportunity at: https://scribblefire.com/learn-the-secrets-to-happiness/ ONLY 1 spot left. Get it before its gone.

"The difference between art and life is that art is more bearable." 

Charles Bukowski

Read more about the stress study and how skill level doesn't matter:

http://www.psypost.org/2016/06/skill-level-making-art-reduces-stress-hormone-cortisol-43362

Learn more about the studio at https://www.impossiblestudio.com

Instagram

Facebook

Impossible Dream Studio
105 N. Patterson Ave
Florence, Texas 76527

If you liked this article, you may also like the first in this series:

https://dsborden.blogspot.com/2018/03/why-should-you-make-more-decisions-with.html

#stress #art #artlessons #artretreat #relax #joy #happiness #meditation #zen #chill