Being a fairly high-strung person, I am constantly amazed that the ONLY time I lose track of time is when I’m in my studio creating art.  There is NO other time that I need to set an alarm to remember to leave.   The other thing that has surprised me about creating art is that if I’m painting and gently pondering my day, I often find myself integrating themes or concerns in my personal life as well as those of my clients,-often settling on approaches or solutions that are a little outside of what I would’ve chosen at first blush.  

 

So, why is this?  Why does art change the way your brain works?  It’s said even falling into the “flow” or mindlessness of a doodle can alter your brain.  When you’re in “flow”, there is heightened activity in the front and central regions of your brain.  Ultimately, you’re brain lights up when you lose yourself in art- even simple, mindless lines and shapes or coloring in a coloring book.  The simple act of intuitively selecting a color to use connects visuals to your emotions or inner state without you even knowing it. Creative approaches to everyday problems may appear for you because you’re activating different parts of your brain versus talking. 

 

No interest in creating?  Then even looking at art has its benefits.  “Eudemonic wellbeing,” the sense that life has meaning and can be fulfilling was a consistent benefit of humans just looking at art - no art history 101 knowledge necessary.  So, go get lost in a coloring book, a watercolor set or just pull up a piece of art on your laptop that pleases your senses.   May you experience an “AHHHHH” or “AHA!”

Sarah 

Asheville, NC - Golden, CO

Instagram: @sarah_barkley_lcsw

                  @sarahbarkleyart

303-957-7221