The Art of Wellness

With so many benefits for the mind, spirit, and art itself, creativity has the power to heal us and improve our overall mental wellness on a large scale.

People who enjoy the arts will likely attest to the fact that viewing art has a spiritual quality. Viewing a painting or seeing a play has the ability to form, shape, and hold in front of your very eyes, something that you feel internally. This type of connectivity between your emotions and mind is transcendent—but did you know it’s also extremely beneficial for your mental wellness?

A recent article by Vice claimed art therapy might be the next great breakthrough in treating mental health issues. For people in Australia, where 45% of adults will experience a mental disorder at some point in their lives, it is important to consider the ways art may reduce symptoms of issues like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. And, what’s more: creativity is actually boosted by positive mental health, making the connection between art and mental wellness symbiotic. By unleashing our creativity and establishing human connection, art has an amazing power to boost mental wellness.

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The Big Idea
About the Author
The Big Idea | Te Aria Nui is New Zealand’s online hub for creative people. Our aim is to support talented, innovative individuals and organisations, back the creative industries and advocate for creativity as an essential ingredient in the cultural and economic wealth of New Zealand. The Big Idea provides resources for the whole creative sector, including those seeking to turn their ‘big ideas’ into viable projects, careers and businesses. We are the go-to destination for work opportunities, event listings, arts stories and creative inspiration. The Big Idea is a not-for-profit trust started in 2001 and is New Zealand’s longest running creative sector website.