So what exaclty is Creative Health?
"Creative health" is a term that encompasses the relationship between engagement in creative activities and overall well-being. Put simply, it is the use of arts to improve health outcomes. This includes both visual arts and performance arts.
Creatitve health recognizes the positive impact that participating in artistic and creative endeavours can have on mental, emotional, and even physical health. Creative health is evidence-based, and a holistic concept that goes beyond traditional healthcare approaches and emphasizes the importance of incorporating artistic practices into one's lifestyle for enhanced quality of life. The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Arts, Health and Well-being (AHW) and the National Centre for Creative Health (NCCH) help to steer efforts in the UK.
On 6th December 2023 they launched the report on the Creative Health Review. This report highlighted the potential for creative health to tackle pressing issues in health and social care. The review gathered evidence that showed the benefits of creative health in relation to major challenges and examples of where it is already working in practice to combat health inequalities.
Why Creative Health?
"Arts interventions are often low-risk, highly cost-effective, integrated and hollistic treatment options for complex health challenges to which there are no solutions."
-World Health Organisation, Regional Office For Europe, 2019. (Creative Health Review, 2023, p90)
Key aspects of creative health include
Artistic Expression:
Engaging in various forms of creative expression, such as photography, visual arts, music, dance, writing, or theater, can provide individuals with a means to express themselves, communicate emotions, and explore their identities.
Mind-Body Connection:
Creative activities are often linked to relaxation, stress reduction, and improved mental well-being. The act of creating art can be a meditative process, promoting mindfulness and helping individuals manage stress and anxiety.
Community and Social Connection:
Participating in creative pursuits can foster a sense of community and social connection. Collaborative art projects, workshops, or group activities provide opportunities for individuals to connect with others, share experiences, and build supportive networks.
Personal Growth and Learning:
Creative activities encourage continuous learning and personal growth. Whether it's acquiring new artistic skills or gaining insights into one's own thoughts and feelings, the creative process can contribute to ongoing self-discovery and development for all stages of life.
Therapeutic Benefits:
These therapies leverage creative expression to help individuals address emotional challenges, trauma, or mental health issues.
Joy and Fulfillment:
Engaging in creative activities can bring a sense of joy, accomplishment, and fulfillment. The act of creating something new, whether it's a piece of art, a piece of writing, or a musical composition, can contribute to a positive sense of achievement and satisfaction.
Physical Health
Often overlooked, but an increase in physical activity, whether through dance, theatre, or photography walks can improve bio markers for health.
How I Can Help?
Whether you are simply looking for a Creative Health Practictioner to lead a session on your project, or if you need an end-to-end solution, I can help. Get in touch today and lets discuss your ideas.
