Do you know that sitting in front of a canvas or a paper, creating masterpieces from the swish of a paint brush and mixing different colors is beneficial for your wellbeing? Painting can improve the overall health of your body and mind. It is perfectly fine if you’ve been painting all your life or are just a beginner at your age. Arts and creativity do not require a certain age. Therefore, it is never too late to try it out. Here are some benefits of painting.
Painting Promotes Physical Well-Being
When you paint, you make use of your hands and eyes, therefore it improves the coordination between these two body parts. You exercise your fine motor skills which enhances the functioning of your hands and fingers. Do you know that people who paint are less likely to feel the pangs of arthritis in their upper limbs, wrists, hands and fingers? Painting also lessens the likelihood of hand tremors, as long as you do not tire out your hands. Paint in moderation and make sure not to strain your hands and fingers.
Painting Promotes Mental Well-Being
Creating artworks do not only improve your physical health but it also does wonders for your cognitive functioning. When you paint, the lobes of your brain are in sync. When you plan what to paint and decide on the which colors to use, you sharpen your mind. When you try to recall a scenery you have previously sighted in your life and try to recreate it, your brain becomes more active by gathering information from long-term memory. As you create a masterpiece, you use the higher order function of your brain. Did you know that some studies have found out that painting decreases the risk of Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?
Painting Promotes Emotional Well-Being
As you create art, you get a sense of accomplishment. It also brings feelings of independence. Once you get to see the outcome of your work, you have that confidence boost and may become happier. Some researches show that painting decreases the likelihood of developing anxiety or depression.
Painting Promotes Social Well-Being
You don’t have to be confined and alone when you create your artwork. Painting is a good avenue to be with people who share the same interest as you. Enrolling in painting classes will enable you to meet new people with whom you can share your creative ideas. It lessens the feeling of isolation and loneliness. As you paint side by side with someone, you can communicate and talk about anything. Who knows, you might find a life-long friend?
Painting is Therapy
For you who have loved ones suffering from memory loss or are on the early stage of dementia, painting may be a way for you to be able to communicate with them. This is specially so when your loved one has already difficulty talking. Painting may be an easier way for them to express how they feel through the use of images and colors.
Painting is one of the many activities to enjoy in your choice of retirement community. If not, you may request team members to come up with this idea, so that you and other residents will be able to pursue this passion.
