Creating art can lower stress and enhance your wellbeing. Of course, most creative folks already know this, but it’s always satisfying when science catches up.

A 2016 Drexel University study found that making art can significantly reduce stress-related hormones. Cortisol, a stress indicator, was measured in the study through saliva samples. (The higher a person’s cortisol level, the more stressed a person is likely to be.)

The researchers found that 75 percent of the participants’ cortisol levels lowered during just 45 minutes of making art!

One Drexel researcher noted, “We want(ed) to ultimately examine how creative pursuits could help with psychological well-being and, therefore, physiological health, as well.” 

Having fun with your art supplies has many health benefits – and just think, you can use the money you save on health issues to get more art supplies!

Aura Aum, 24” x 29”. Cottons, wool blend, charms, metallic threads. The silver charm at the top is an om symbol, and the vintage button at the third eye is brass with intricate carvings and a crystal rhinestone in the center. The spirals represent the meditative spiral into the Inner Self. The central image is my painting, printed on fabric by Spoonflower. This will be on exhibit at the Mid Atlantic Quilt Festival in Hampton VA, Feb 23-26, 2023.