The image shows members of the Obusuma Social Welfare Corporation creating products.
Art is not only beautiful, but also has the power to calm the mind and alleviate everyday stress. This time, we will introduce the healing and relaxing effects of art from a scientific perspective, based on research papers and previous cases.
Stress reduction
Art has stress-relieving effects. For example, it has been reported that looking at or drawing pictures lowers the stress hormone cortisol. Some studies have even shown effects from short creative experiences. The feeling of calm that comes from simply painting your favorite color, or the sense of mental clarity after a visit to a museum on a holiday, are due to this effect. Simply incorporating a little art into your life can deepen your breath and increase moments of lightness and ease.
Expression and release of emotions.
Art is a means of expressing emotions more freely than words. In art therapy, which is part of psychotherapy, it has been reported that expressing feelings through paintings and sculptures can alleviate mental burden and lead to stability. Even in daily life, unconsciously drawing lines when feeling down or layering colors while listening to music can help to organize one's feelings. There is also research showing that mood improves after creative experiences in pediatric wards, and art is actually seen as supporting a sense of security and self-esteem.
Promoting relaxation.
There's a reason why hospitals and clinics incorporate art and images of nature. A well-known study showed that patients in rooms with views of nature had shorter hospital stays and required less pain medication compared to those in rooms with only walls. Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in the UK has a program called "GOSH Arts," enriching the experiences of patients, families, and staff through the hospital's art collection and participatory programs. Similarly, Moffitt Cancer Center and Nebraska Medicine's "Healing Arts" program in the US uses participatory art, permanent installations, and the creation of calming spaces to alleviate anxiety and pain. The same is true at home; displaying favorite artwork in the living room or bedroom creates a gentle, calming atmosphere.
Brain activation
Viewing artwork in a museum stimulates the brain's reward system, eliciting positive moods. Neuroaesthetics also demonstrates the deep connection between artistic experiences and brain function. As a concrete example, the Tate Modern in the UK consistently holds workshops and events themed around well-being, encouraging mindful appreciation and community participation among visitors. In public spaces, the Stockholm subway, known as "the world's longest art museum," features art in numerous stations, transforming the commute itself into a rich experience.
The effects of art therapy.
Art therapy is known to be effective for people with PTSD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Expressing emotions that are difficult to put into words through paintings and sculptures can lead to calmness and a sense of security.
The relationship between healthcare and welfare and art and design has been the subject of ongoing research and practice, and has recently garnered renewed attention in international discussions. At the " Matsumae Business 2025 " symposium held in Vejle, Jutland, Denmark on February 18-19, 2025, co-sponsored by the Embassy of Japan and the City of Vejle, the event focused on "Welfare Technology and Loneliness/Isolation Issues," featuring lectures and discussions by experts.
At this event, art director Rika Kawato gave a lecture on "The Role of Design and Art in Medical and Welfare," during which she also touched on her collaboration with a good view . This collaboration is based on "OBUSUMA," a wooden product brand launched by the Obusuma Welfare Association, a social welfare corporation in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture. OBUSUMA aims to create new opportunities for self-expression for people with disabilities, and to discover and nurture talent through art activities. Ms. Kawato is in charge of the art direction, and a good view produces and sells posters based on OBUSUMA's designs. This can be seen as an example of an attempt to connect welfare and society through art.
Summary
The healing and calming effects of art have been supported by numerous studies. It alleviates stress, makes it easier to express emotions, relaxes the mind and body, and invigorates the brain. Furthermore, the power of art is being utilized in various aspects of society, including hospitals, public spaces, and international symposia.
Incorporating art into your daily life will make your life richer and more colorful. Trust your own sensibilities and find a piece that resonates with your heart. Art is not just for appreciation, but also an important tool for confronting yourself.
References
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Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of cortisol levels and participants' responses following art making. *Art Therapy*, *33* (2), 74-80.
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Stuckey, H. L., & Nobel, J. (2010). The connection between art, healing, and public health. *American Journal of Public Health*, *100* (2), 254–263.
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Ulrich, RS (1984). View through a window may influence recovery from surgery. Science, 224 (4647), 420–421.
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Zeki, S. (2001). Artistic creativity and the brain. Science, 293 (5527), 51–52.
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Malchiodi, C. A. (2012). *Art Therapy and Health Care *. Guilford Press.
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