
I was born into a family of artists, and making art has always been part of my everyday existence. From as far back as I can remember, it’s been my passion, my purpose, the lens through which I view life, and my identity. I grew up creating and exploring art for fun and later even learned to use it as a process for healing. Eventually, I became an art educator to share my love of everything art.
At age 40, I needed to take a break from teaching and went back to school to study Occupational Therapy. It was there I began to learn about anatomy, physiology, and psychology. I became fascinated with the study of the brain, how the different regions worked, neural connections and pathways, brain wave states, states of mind, and emotions. Art may have been my calling, but neuroscience became my hobby. Who knew that under all that artsy exterior was a neuroscience geek?

The Exciting News About Art
The more I learned about Neuroscience, the more intrigued I became by the incredible possibilities of changing brain wave states, the creation of new neural pathways and connections, and the importance of the brain, not just the mind, in healing. Reading about the brain was like reading a mystery I couldn’t put it down until I figured out the ending. However, there is no ending. There are hundreds of research studies and findings, and scientists are learning new things every day. What excited me the most though, and was my “Aha,” moment, was reading actual scientific studies on how art is really important in its ability to change the brain.
Yup, art. I always felt that art had incredible potential in helping others, just from my own experiences. I was floored by how deep this potential was, and that it is backed by scientific evidence. Even more interesting was that the findings were not just for making art, but viewing art as well. Scientific evidence included art in its simplest forms such as choosing a color to paint or more complex forms like building a sculpture. It spanned all types of art, mediums, and techniques, including observing art in pictures, museums, and online.
Art has been part of human existence for tens of thousands of years, from cave paintings to modern-day murals, but to learn that creating or even observing art doesn’t just make you feel good, it actually changes your brain? This is essential news, especially when more and more schools today are cutting art programs out of their budget.
Scientific studies are shedding light on how engaging with art impacts our neural pathways, enhances our emotional well-being, and even helps us heal. Let’s explore how art works its magic on the brain.

Art and Your Brain: The Science
When you engage in art, whether by painting, sculpting, or even doodling, your brain enters a unique state, sometimes called the “Flow” state. Studies using brain imaging techniques reveal that creating art activates several areas of the brain.
Activating different areas of your brain is essential because it enhances overall brain health, builds resilience, and supports a wide range of cognitive and emotional abilities. Engaging various brain regions through art-making improves mental flexibility, which helps you adapt to new challenges, think creatively, and solve problems in innovative ways. It’s like cross-training for your mind!
The Prefrontal Cortex is responsible for decision-making, problem-solving, and regulating our thoughts. When you engage in simple art activities like doodling, blood flow is increased to the prefrontal cortex. This impacts brain waves, which improves cognitive function. I find this very interesting because I have a habit of doodling throughout meetings and lectures, and find that it helps me focus and recall information better.
The Limbic System, often called the brain’s emotional center, is a collection of brain structures. Together these structures process feelings like joy, calm, or even catharsis. Art provides a safe outlet for expressing emotions, helping to stimulate the Limbic System, and teaching the brain to process and release emotions more effectively.
The Default Mode Network is the area in the brain associated with introspection and self-reflection. Art activities in a quiet setting can help you process complex emotions and gain insights about yourself. I have noticed this with my art journaling practice. Working intuitively in my journal with collage and mixed media has truly helped me process and move past many uncomfortable feelings and find new ways to cope with difficult emotions.
When you complete a piece of art, your brain releases dopamine, the “happy chemical,” associated with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. Cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, is also lowered. In one study published in the journal Art Therapy, researchers found that just 45 minutes of creative activity significantly reduced cortisol levels in participants, regardless of their skill level. I find art-making to be like meditation. I can create for hours and feel a calm, joyful state, no matter what type of art I am working on.
When different brain areas work together, they form new neural connections. This rewiring strengthens the brain. Learning and practicing a new art form, like watercolor painting or pottery, stimulates this process, improving cognitive functions and even helping recover lost skills after a brain injury or stroke.
Art for Everyone
Scientific studies found that you don’t need to be the next Picasso to experience the benefits of art. No matter what skill level you are, you will still gain from the process. Interestingly, the process has more of a brain-changing advantage than the outcome.
Don’t be shy if you haven’t been creative in a while. Start simple, with no expectations. Make art that is playful and fun. Experiment with different art materials and explore a variety of art forms to look at. Here are some simple ways to incorporate art into your life:
• Start a Visual Journal: Combine images, doodles, and words to express your thoughts and emotions.
• Paint for Fun: Try abstract painting with bold colors and free-flowing shapes.
• Join a Workshop: Community art classes can be both therapeutic and social.
Visit Museums or Galleries: Even observing art has been shown to reduce stress and inspire creativity.
Art is more than just decoration or entertainment; it’s a powerful tool for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether you’re facing stress, healing from trauma, or simply looking to build your brain muscle, art offers a path to transformation backed by science and accessible to everyone. So, grab a brush, pen, or whatever sparks your interest—your brain will thank you!
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