Physiological Effects of Viewing Artworks
We just stumbled upon some insights about the impact of art on our bodies and minds.
Isabella Viscountess Molyneux later Countess of Sefton
by Thomas Gainsborough
Did you know that viewing artworks can have measurable physiological effects on the body?
Research shows that spending time with art can significantly reduce stress levels. In fact, thirteen out of fourteen studies reported a notable drop in self-reported stress after participants viewed artworks.
Moreover, art viewing can lower your blood pressure! All four studies that measured systolic blood pressure observed a decrease after participants engaged with art. Other common physiological changes include a slower heart rate and decreased respiration rate, though a couple of studies found mixed results.
When it comes to the stress hormone cortisol, the findings are a bit inconsistent. One study showed decreased levels after a visit to an art gallery, while another found increased waking cortisol after a six-week art intervention. Interestingly, skin conductance, which indicates a stimulating effect, tended to increase while viewing art.
But it doesn't stop there! Functional brain imaging has revealed that looking at art activates the brain's reward system and increases blood flow, much like other pleasurable experiences such as eating or sex.
Together, these findings suggest that art viewing can induce a physiologically relaxing state in many contexts, although some situations may lead to stimulating or variable effects.
Curious to learn more or experience the benefits for yourself?
Reach out to us and let's dive deeper into the world of art and its incredible effects on our well-being.
references
https://www.arttherapy.org/EatingDisorderToolkit/assessingstress.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5836011/
https://sageclinic.org/blog/art-relieve-stress/
https://drexel.edu/news/archive/2016/june/art_hormone_levels_lower
