Mention Hippocrates and most people think of the Hippocratic Oath, which is taken by every practicing physician. But most people do not realize Hippocrates’ teachings touched upon many different aspects of well-being.
One such aspect was the influence of art and its impact on physical and emotional health. Hippocrates understood art facilitated the healing process of patients by uplifting their spirits. Similarly, Galen found exposing his patients to the outdoors enhanced their health via the sights of daily life.
In a well-documented study, patients who could view the beauty of nature through their windows encountered shorter hospital stays after having had surgery, needed lower doses of narcotics and had reduced complications from surgery.
Research from Harvard Medical School indicates medical students who enrolled in art classes were able to have better medical skills than other students who did not have a similar experience.
By studying art, students improved their ability to make more accurate observations and thus possess enhanced visual literacy. For example, when looking at a rash, students could more clearly observe intricate details. Instead of looking at a rash as just an abnormal area on the skin, students became more aware of patterns as well as variations in the rash’s color. The resulting outcome was that these students used art as a way to enhance their ability to make important diagnostic determinations.
The Healing Aspects of Art
Art can have a profound effect on the ability to deal with stress. Studies have shown viewing art can impact a person’s physiology. Suppose one is experiencing stress, something that most of us face every day of our lives. By viewing art that is soothing to the body and spirit, stress levels can be reduced. Every cell in the body can be affected by the stimulus produced by a beautiful painting.
Because art can affect the neurotransmitters in the brain, one’s perceptions of the world can be altered, which in turn can change attitude, emotions and even reduce pain. The positive distractions produced by art can serve to improve one’s state of health.
Color Yourself Healthy
What we see determines our moods as well as how we feel. Different colors, whether through a painting or other medium can have a profound impact on our lives.
Green symbolizes nature and health and promotes a calming effect. People who appear on television sit in “green rooms” to help reduce stress created by the anticipation of going on the air. Blue, one of the most popular colors, is said to promote a peaceful and quiet environment. Research shows that when people work in a room that is painted blue, they are more productive. On the other hand, red is a more extreme color that can increase one’s heartbeat and breathing rates.
Create a vision of the world around you, both literally and figuratively. You may be surprised to see how healthy that can be.
Dr. Philip Heit is Professor Emeritus of Physical Activity and Educational Services at The Ohio State University.
BONUS:
The King Arts Complex and the YMCA are joining forces to present an opportunity to encourage better health. "Mind, Body and Soul" will take place April 25 at the King Arts Complex, 867 Mt. Vernon Ave., and will include activities and information on exercise. Also, author Tina Lassiter will present a program on “healing arts.” For more information, visit www.kingartscomplex.com or call 614-645-KING.