Last year, when the pandemic took over the whole world by storm, a huge population struggled to survive because life took unexpected turns...
INTROSPECTION
‘The Ersatz Elevator’ is one of the best book series I have ever read, and here is why: Lemony Snicket wrote and I quote “Sometimes, words are not enough. There are some circumstances so utterly wretched that I cannot describe them in sentences or paragraphs or even in a whole series of books.” Words that feel like a hug. Words that express what one feels but can’t express. This is the magic of art, sometimes when everything seems to fail, art speaks and provokes the life which is suppressed under the dust of the routine.
Last year, when the pandemic took over the whole world by storm, a huge population struggled to survive because life took unexpected turns. Most of us cope up with our mental disorders by staying busy, staying out and distracting ourselves, and when our only coping mechanism was snatched away, the reality hit us like a truck. With struggling mental health, so many of us turned back to our childhood hobbies like painting, writing, origami, etc. To be precise, we brought art back into our lives. Upon bringing it back, I realized how much I had missed making art and how it gives me a sense of peace.
The sense of making art enhances the power of brain. There are different types of waves produced by our brain while viewing art - there is a significant increase in delta wave connectivity which is primarily associated with the power of decision making and sustained attention of an individual. Comparatively, there is a higher increase in the gamma wave activity of brain which is associated with information processing and cognition.
This is the reason why people who are keen about art have remarkable improvements in cognitive function, problem solving abilities, stress relief, emotional well-being, development of personal expression and self-awareness.
Making art also improves memory. Through numerous researches, it is proven that artistic approaches and freedom enhances the skill of information absorption. Any type of art whether it is dancing, making music, writing, painting, etc., helps a person in improvement of his/her memory. Arts education in schools helps students in enhancement of memory and concentration span, and also encourage focus and discipline.
It also improves social skills and self-esteem. Art also broadens your perspective; when you’re able to think creatively, you’re open to new approaches which means you’re not looking at what your eyes are looking at: you’re looking beyond what you can see and think. It encourages you to think out of the box which polishes the potential of creativity.
Art is a bond that brings humans together. Art is needed the most in the times of crisis, because it reminds us that we’re never alone. Even when monsters of loneliness and darkness are ready to engulf us, art helps us to validate our feelings. Art is more than just mere action; it is a feeling of being seen and heard. It is a tremendous way of feeling and expressing deep emotions which can neither be said nor be described. It creates impact, makes connections, and help us in processing the views we couldn’t see. Art is one of the healing methods which makes a connection between your body and mind, since it accesses both your mind and body.
Make art and spread light in this world. We all need it.
