Healing arts
Arts engagement as a health behavior. By Alexandra Rodriguez
Previous research has demonstrated that arts engagement offers an accessible, equitable opportunity to combat mental health inequities and impact upstream health determinants.
Alexandra Rodriguez, M.P.H., a public health doctoral student in the social and behavioral sciences concentration; George Hack, Ph.D., PHHP’s associate dean for educational affairs; and colleagues from UF’s Center for Arts in Medicine, Johns Hopkins University and Columbia University, published an article in the journal Community Health Equity Research & Policy on arts participation as an approach for addressing mental health disparities. Their article also illustrates methods by which the arts can be leveraged across spheres of influence, including individual, interpersonal, community, policy and cultural levels.
“Our paper centers on the concept that arts engagement can act as a protective and rehabilitative behavior for mental health while also redefining and strengthening health at each of these levels,” Rodriguez said.
With growing evidence of the health benefits of engaging in the arts, how can you incorporate arts or creativity into your wellness practice? Rodriguez offers three tips to get started.
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You don’t have to be an expert. Lean in to practices you enjoy! Research has shown that health benefits are not linked to proficiency or excellence in artistic practice, so don’t be intimidated to start creating. Also, consider engaging in art forms you may have not been previously exposed to like glass blowing, macramé, wood turning or even metal work.
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Create with others. Make a concentrated effort to create alongside friends or to connect with organizations engaged in your preferred creative practice. Research has shown that participating in art with others can reduce loneliness and isolation, as well as enhance social support.
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Make it a habit. Create time in your schedule to prioritize engaging in the arts. By having a routine, it will be easier to sustain your artistic processes and practices!
