The Art of Healthy Living (excerpted from "Taste for Life" magazine, August 2011)
We all know that physical exercise is good for health, but what about cultural "exercise?"
Recent research has revealed that viewing an art exhibit, watching a play or even reading a poem are highly beneficial for one's health. Norwegian scientists interviewed more than 50,000 adults and analyzed their creative activities, such as exercising or playing an instrument, and their receptive activities, like watching a concert or sporting event. They also measured participants' overall health and satisfaction with their lives.
Culture made a big difference: 84% of those who participated in at least four activities, whether as creators or consumers, said they were in good or very good health. More than 90% said they were satisfied with their lives.
Women tended to benefit more from active engagement in culture. Instead of just listening to a concert, they fared better if they sang in a choir. Men showed improved health with any receptive cultural activity. The study revealed that overall, for both men and women, more involvement in cultural pursuits led to better health, more life satisfaction, and lower levels of anxiety and depression.
Poetry reading, anyone?
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