Why Art and Beauty Matter (And Heals) in Times of Stress and Anxiety

The world has been pretty overwhelming and anxiety-inducing lately.  I'm sure pretty much everyone can agree with that. Art and beauty have never been as important as now as a means to offer a sanctuary and provide some much-needed respite from the world. It is a space where we can reconnect with ourselves and find some peace in the midst of the stress.

Studies have shown that interacting with (or making) art can reduce cortisol levels and lower blood pressure. This  is especially true of art depicting nature or scenes of calm and beauty.

Art also provides a means to express what’s difficult to put into words. When faced with intense emotions, like anxiety, fear or sadness, creating or experiencing art allows us to channel these feelings in a constructive, nonverbal way. This can be healing in many ways. A simple watercolor landscape or a stirring piece of music can help us process and release tension we may be holding inside of us.

Art and beauty encourage us to see the world differently or remember how we really want to see it. That in itself can inspire hope. Through art, we can be reminded of things like nature’s resilience, the beauty in simplicity, and the cycles of renewal that follow hardship. A beautiful piece of art offers a small yet significant reminder that there is light beyond the darkness and fear we may feel. It gently encourages us to hold onto hope, to keep going, and to trust that better times will come.

Especially in times of stress and anxiety, engaging with art also becomes an act of self-care, a way to cultivate inner peace amidst external turmoil. By embracing art and beauty, we can nurture our spirits, regain balance, and find the strength to navigate our challenges and the challenges of the world with a renewed sense of calm and resilience.