My recent research explores how the act of creating art activates the effort-driven rewards circuit in the brain, leading to feelings of satisfaction and well-being.
Have you ever felt a deep sense of satisfaction after finishing a piece of art, even if it wasn't perfect? That rewarding feeling has a lot to do with your brain's "effort-driven rewards circuit." This network of neurons gets activated by activities that require physical effort and result in a tangible creation.
Here's how art-making taps into this circuit:
Hands-on Engagement: Moving your hands, whether it's painting, sculpting, or drawing, stimulates a large area of your brain's cortex. This physical action is a key part of the effort-driven reward system.
The Power of Process: Art is often a journey, with challenges and moments of discovery along the way. The effort you put into solving problems and refining your work contributes to the final reward.
Seeing is Believing: The end product of your artistic endeavor is a physical representation of your efforts. This tangible reward reinforces the positive feelings associated with the creative process.
The benefits of engaging this circuit go beyond just a happy feeling:
Improved Well-being: Studies suggest that activities that activate the effort-driven
rewards circuit can help combat depression and promote a sense of accomplishment.
Stress Relief: Focusing on creating art can be a form of mindfulness, taking your mind off daily worries and promoting relaxation.
Boosted Confidence: Mastering a new skill or overcoming a creative hurdle can give you a sense of confidence that spills over into other areas of life.
So next time you're feeling stressed or uninspired, consider picking up a paintbrush, some clay, or even some pencils or crayons. Engaging in art can be a powerful tool to boost your mood, challenge yourself, and experience the joy of creating something with your own two hands.
Emma Barone
