Weird Wednesday ~ Art and Endorphins

This post is dedicated to the marvelous artist, Ana, and keeper of the blog, Introverted Art. Do stop by and see the incredible watercolors she creates!

Last year she wrote how art and the act of creating made her feel good. I know many artists speak of how art is a way to unwind, to release stress, and to problem solve. Gardening can also be thrown into this category!

Well, there is scientific proof (as if we needed it!) that creating is good for the mind, body and soul.

In the November 2012 issue of Martha Stewart magazine, there was an article about this very thing. The act of crafting and gardening stimulates the pleasure centers in a person's brain, which then release neurochemicals, like dopamine (a natural endorphin), making us feel good.

Crafting has as many benefits as meditation.  When a person is concentrating on what they are making, they are required to live in the moment and not give a thought to the future or the past - the cortex of the brain, which controls conscious thought, becomes quiet and peaceful. But a person's unconscious mind is far from idle during this time of quiet creating. The unconscious mind will be mulling over problems or conflicts and will come up with possible solutions to those things that were causing frustration.

 But fret not if you are not handy with a glue gun or a paint brush, even the mere act of viewing something which is pleasing, something of beauty can distract the brain from those nagging, worrisome thoughts!