Viewing original art in a gallery has long been touted as a way to stimulate creativity, spark emotions, and even improve mental wellbeing. But what if this revered practice can do more? According to the first-ever study of its kind, spending time surrounded by masterpieces from world-renowned artists like Manet, Van Gogh, and Gauguin can actually have a profound impact on both body and mind.
Researchers at King's College London led a 20-minute experiment where participants aged between 18 and 40 in the UK donned sensors to track their physiological responses while viewing either original artworks or reproductions of the same paintings. The results were nothing short of remarkable, with cortisol levels plummeting by as much as 22% among those gazing upon the originals, compared to just a 8% decrease for those looking at copies.
Moreover, the study revealed that art not only calms the body but also has a calming effect on the immune system and nervous system. Pro-inflammatory cytokines – markers linked to stress, chronic diseases, and even anxiety and depression – fell by as much as 30% among those in the gallery, with no corresponding decrease for those viewing reproductions.
Dr. Tony Woods, lead researcher at King's College London, hailed this groundbreaking study a major breakthrough. "The research clearly shows the stress-reducing properties of viewing original art," he explained. "Stress hormones and inflammatory markers are linked to a wide range of health problems – but by lowering these markers, we're suggesting that cultural experiences may play a real role in protecting both mind and body."
The study's findings also revealed that art engages multiple bodily systems simultaneously, including the immune system, nervous system, and endocrine system. This unique discovery has left researchers genuinely surprised, with Dr. Woods describing it as "the most exciting outtake" of the entire study.
As Jenny Waldman, director of the Art Fund, noted, this study provides compelling evidence that viewing art in a gallery is not only emotionally moving but also profoundly beneficial for our wellbeing. The benefits, she added, are universal – available to anyone – and encourages everyone to make time to visit their local museum or gallery to experience these effects firsthand.
With its extraordinary findings, this study offers a tantalizing glimpse into the profound impact art can have on both our emotional lives and physical health. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for new ways to improve your wellbeing, one thing is clear: spending time among masterpieces can be a potent tool in the pursuit of overall wellness.
Researchers at King's College London led a 20-minute experiment where participants aged between 18 and 40 in the UK donned sensors to track their physiological responses while viewing either original artworks or reproductions of the same paintings. The results were nothing short of remarkable, with cortisol levels plummeting by as much as 22% among those gazing upon the originals, compared to just a 8% decrease for those looking at copies.
Moreover, the study revealed that art not only calms the body but also has a calming effect on the immune system and nervous system. Pro-inflammatory cytokines – markers linked to stress, chronic diseases, and even anxiety and depression – fell by as much as 30% among those in the gallery, with no corresponding decrease for those viewing reproductions.
Dr. Tony Woods, lead researcher at King's College London, hailed this groundbreaking study a major breakthrough. "The research clearly shows the stress-reducing properties of viewing original art," he explained. "Stress hormones and inflammatory markers are linked to a wide range of health problems – but by lowering these markers, we're suggesting that cultural experiences may play a real role in protecting both mind and body."
The study's findings also revealed that art engages multiple bodily systems simultaneously, including the immune system, nervous system, and endocrine system. This unique discovery has left researchers genuinely surprised, with Dr. Woods describing it as "the most exciting outtake" of the entire study.
As Jenny Waldman, director of the Art Fund, noted, this study provides compelling evidence that viewing art in a gallery is not only emotionally moving but also profoundly beneficial for our wellbeing. The benefits, she added, are universal – available to anyone – and encourages everyone to make time to visit their local museum or gallery to experience these effects firsthand.
With its extraordinary findings, this study offers a tantalizing glimpse into the profound impact art can have on both our emotional lives and physical health. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for new ways to improve your wellbeing, one thing is clear: spending time among masterpieces can be a potent tool in the pursuit of overall wellness.
I mean, can you believe it? A study that shows original art can actually lower cortisol levels by 22%?! That's crazy! 
And it's not just about calming down, but also reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and stress hormones. It's like a mini-vacation for your brain and body 
. I'm totally sold on the idea of spending more time in art galleries or museums. Not only is it good for you mentally, but it can also be super relaxing and calming 
. The fact that it affects multiple bodily systems at once is mind-blowing 
. Can't wait to see what other benefits come out of this study! 
what really interests me is how it affects multiple bodily systems simultaneously. like, our immune system, nervous system, and endocrine system are all linked together in this way, so it's not just one thing that's calming us down, but the whole shebang 
and i think this study shows us why galleries have been around for centuries - they're more than just pretty pictures, they're actually good for us 
. I remember when my kiddo was going through that awkward teenager phase, we'd spend hours at the art museum together, just me and them, gazing at those masterpieces... it was like a mini-vacation from reality! 
. Can't wait to see what other benefits are uncovered from this study 
I can totally imagine how much stress relief you'd get from being surrounded by all that masterful energy 
. It's not just about aesthetics, it's like your body and mind are having a major chill-out session 
. And the fact that it affects multiple bodily systems simultaneously? That's like, whoa 
! I need to get myself to a gallery ASAP and soak up some of that wellness vibes 
spending time surrounded by original artworks from these legendary artists must do something amazing for our mental health and wellbeing 
i mean 22% decrease in cortisol levels is no joke! 
and the fact that it's not just calming the body but also affecting our immune system and nervous system? mind blown 
. I've had some friends who are total art nerds, and they're always going on about how being around great art makes them feel more chill and inspired 
. And it's not just the mind, but our immune system too - a 30% decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines? That's some serious science right there 
. It makes total sense why galleries are always so peaceful and calming... who needs meditation when you can just hang out with Van Gogh's sunflowers 
?
. Now if we could just get our politicians to take art as seriously as they do therapy sessions...
!
Have you ever visited an exhibition where you felt completely relaxed? For me, it was that moment of being transported to another time and place - the science behind it is amazing! 
.
. It's not just about being cultured or sophisticated – it's about taking care of myself and feeling good on the inside out 
. So, to anyone who's hesitant to visit an art gallery because they don't think it's "for them", trust me – this study is a game-changer 
I gotta disagree with this study, even though it sounds legit... cortisol levels only dropped by 22% when people saw original art? That's kinda low, if you ask me. Like, how many people actually experienced a significant decrease in stress hormones? It was still just an 8% difference for those looking at copies... that doesn't seem like much to me. 
. And the part about how art engaging multiple bodily systems simultaneously? That's like, whoa 
. I need to get myself to a gallery ASAP and experience this for myself 