Art is one of the most powerful tools for flourishing emotionally and mentally. It can be entertainment, education, or an enriching outlet to add deeper meaning to your life.
How do the benefits of creative expression help you in your golden years? Read on to learn about its powerful impact on healthy aging and what you should look for in a retirement community.
Creativity Is Closely Connected To Cognitive Health
Just like exercising your muscles to keep them strong, your brain needs stimulation to stay sharp. Creative activities provide your brain with the activity it needs to stay healthy.
For example, dancing gives your mind mental stimulation as well as serotonin (the chemical associated with happiness and calmness). Reading a good book will sharpen your concentration and improve your working memory.
Mindfulness meditation through creative activities has also been shown to improve mental cognition. No matter which artistic pursuit you choose, your mind will benefit.
Emotional Fulfillment Is A Key Benefit Of Creative Pursuits
When you’re feeling worried or upset, art can help you process your emotions. Creative expression is a beautiful way to feel more richly and understand yourself more deeply.
As you get older, you can struggle with feeling lonely or scared by the changes in your life. Adopting a creative hobby is how you channel those feelings into a practical – and relaxing – activity. You’ll gain control over how you feel, as well as the changes your mind and body are going through.
You can go a step further and create art that benefits others. Knitting a scarf for a friend or crafting a birdhouse for a birdwatching group are wonderfully fulfilling activities. At Charter House, we appreciate the powerful impact art has on the lives of artists and the people around them.
A Creative Life Is Vital For Reducing Stress
Chronic stress worsens existing conditions, making it hard to live a peaceful and fulfilling life. When over 90% of older adults have at least one health condition, reducing stress is a daily commitment.
Fortunately, creative activities are closely linked to stress reduction and can be done anytime. One neuroscience study found a compelling link between artistic activities and reduced cortisol (the stress hormone). Your first step toward a healthier you is simply picking an activity that interests you.
Do you prefer more active hobbies? A salsa class is a wonderful way to get the body moving and meet like-minded people. If you’re more introverted, quiet needlework or a pottery class will do wonders for soothing your stress.
Charter House Is A Haven For Creative Expression
Creative expression is a reliable tool, whether you’re trying to stay physically fit or want to calm anxious thoughts. Your retirement community should be a source of abundant artistry so you can enjoy the benefits of creative expression.
Charter House offers several creative outlets for residents to enjoy, such as libraries, recreation rooms, and an art gallery. We also offer creative classes to teach you new skills, such as a woodworking shop. No matter your favorite hobby – or hobby you want to learn – we’ll meet you halfway.
Contact us today to learn how Charter House will ensure you enjoy the benefits of creativity as you age.