If you’ve always wanted to learn painting but haven’t had the time or opportunity to do so, now’s the perfect time for you to explore art and let your creativity shine. Regardless of whether you’ve taken art classes before, painting is an activity that everyone can participate in. Painting as a retirement activity isn’t just a fun activity to do when you’re bored and have nothing to do. Studies have shown that art therapy is beneficial in many ways to your physical, mental, and psychological health. In this article, we’ve compiled together five benefits of painting and how it can improve your physical, mental, and psychological health.
Improves Mental Health and Boosts Your Mood
Multiple studies have shown that those that paint on a regular basis were generally less likely to feel depressed and lonely since painting reduces feelings of anxiety, stress, and even depression. Participating in art activities also boosts your self-esteem and gives you a greater sense of control over your thoughts and emotions. If you’re feeling stressed out, give painting a shot as it helps you focus more on positive feelings and relax.
Increases Cognitive Function and Stimulation
Although painting may seem like a simple and relaxing activity to do, it’s an activity that forces you to use both sides of your brain at the same time, increasing cognitive function and stimulation of your senses. By stimulating your senses, your mind gets sharper. Studies have shown that taking part in artistic activities helps in slowing down the development of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.
Enhances Motor Skills and Hand-Eye Coordination
Another study found that focusing on a particular task, such as painting or drawing an object, helps those with poor manual dexterity improve their hand-eye coordination as it forces the brain and hands to work together. This helps improve their fine motor skills and dexterity in their hands, wrists, and fingers. Additionally, it’s also been found to help control the swelling and pain in those with arthritis.
Greater Self-Expression
As for those who face issues with communication due to physical or mental deterioration such as dementia, painting on a blank canvas allows you to freely express your thoughts and feelings. Moreover, painting may help you establish better communication with your loved ones and caregivers. And you may even discover a new passion through painting.
It’s a Great Way to Socialize with Others
Lastly, painting is a great way to socialize and interact with other like-minded people with the same creative interests. Perhaps you’ll even form new friendships and build connections. Despite it being a great activity to do on your own, it’s even more fun when you’re doing it with others. That’s why it can be said that painting and art help combat loneliness. Additionally, you could go on an excursion with your friends for some inspiration.
At Discovery Village At Alliance Town Centre, we have exclusive senior living options and lifestyle programs for you to choose from. We also have a wide range of onsite amenities and activities such as painting that you can take part in.
