Mind

Art gives us access to our mental landscape. It asks that we question our inner critic and other mental habits that do not serve our greater good. Art gives us the opportunity to express our unhealthy thoughts and feelings and make room for new ideas and ways of thinking. Art making improves memory and attention span (Collie, Backos, Malchiodi, & Spiegel, 2006). Externalizing thoughts and feelings through art can help us evaluate what we want and don’t want in our lives. Art can help connect centres of the brain and promote neurological development for all ages. It’s never too late to make change.

Body

Seeing and touching the art materials helps us remain present in the here and now.

Introducing art to your regular routine “can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve well-being and enhance the way we fight infection” (NIH, 2008).

On top of these physical-emotional health improvements art making also increases eye-hand coordination and dexterity! (Collie, Backos, Malchiodi, & Spiegel, 2006).