A research study by UCL claims that reading, listening to music, or hobbies like visiting art galleries or museums may slow down ageing. They tested over 3,000 adults in the UK, comparing their participation in the above tasks with changes in DNA that affect ageing without altering the DNA itself.
They found that people who read more and engage in the arts frequently aged at a slower rate compared to those who didn’t. They linked this to the effect exercise has on ageing, with 4% decrease in those who exercise at least once a week being comparable to those who engaged in the arts at least once a week.
The link between slower ageing was more prominent in middle-aged people and people aged 40 and over, independent of external factors such as education, smoking and income.
You can read more about how they carried out the research here.
What are ‘the arts’?
This is a comprehensive guide to what is considered the arts, and according to Science Daily:
“One of the major constituents of the arts are the literary arts, more often called literature — including poetry, novels and short stories, among others — and the performing arts, among them music, dance, magic, theatre and film.”
What are the benefits of engaging in the arts?
Being creative boosts mental health, social lives and regulates emotions. It allows us to express ourselves in different ways. I sometimes write poetry when I’m stressed and need to get my feelings out on paper, and I always feel better after. It doesn’t matter if the poetry is award-winning. Research stresses that it is important to focus on what task you’re doing and not the result.
How to engage in the arts?
Depending on where you live, you can find local galleries, theatres and museums. Music is freely available online via YouTube and platforms like Soundcloud and Spotify. There are also many creative activities that can be done from the comfort of your home. There are many resources online. The following are UK-based, but you can do most from anywhere in the world:
Here are some valuable resources for enhancing your creativity while staying at home:
Arts Council
Ctrl+Paint
Guideposts – Drawing & Painting
London Theatre – Engage with Theatre
Pallant – Creative Activities at Home
UAL – Enjoy Fine Art from Home
It can be easy to feel like ‘the arts’ are not beneficial or worth making time for, but the benefits to our health cannot be discounted. We should all find ways to explore our creative sides to improve our mental and physical wellbeing.
What is your favourite way to be creative?
Links:
Science Daily – The Arts
Psychology Today – Why Art is a Pillar of Health
UCL – Engaging with the Arts Linked to Slower Pace of Ageing
Photos from Pexels.
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