<p>Artist, art therapist and arts in healthcare advocate, Cam Busch explains, “A physiologic process occurs as a result of interacting with the arts. Pain and discomfort are lessened and endorphins are released.” Recent studies have also shown that creative activity (sketching, painting, penning a novel, or simply gazing at a beautiful painting) boosts a person’s mood and self-esteem, slows the heart rate and reduces blood pressure.</p> <p>Harvard Medical School neurology professor, Mark Jude Tramo, says specifically of music, “We believe music can cause neurological changes in specific parts of the brain.” What parts, might that be? Music and other creative activities stimulate the “feel good” systems in the body and brain—like chocolate minus the calories.</p> <p>Gardening, dancing, singing, journaling, photography . . . options are endless, and personal. So get creative, get inspired, and indulge your mind, body and spirit with Art therapy.</p>