Finding a creative outlet can come with a number of health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, experts say.
In a recent interview with NPR, Girija Kaimal said her research had found that making art activated a reward pathway in the brain, which is "perceived as a pleasurable experience."
That’s why Kaimal, a professor at Drexel University and a leading researcher in art therapy, said she encourages everyone to find some sort of way to express creativity.
"Anything that engages your creative mind — the ability to make connections between unrelated things and imagine new ways to communicate — is good for you," Kaimal told NPR.
She stressed the importance of not getting hung up on perfection and instead just creating something — whether it’s painting, writing or even sewing.
If you’re looking to engage with your inner artist this year, there are a number of places to take a class in metro Atlanta.
Spruill Center for the Arts
5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Atlanta.
770-394-3447. www.spruillarts.org
Decatur Glassblowing
250 Freeman St., Decatur.
404-849-0301. www.decaturglassblowing.com
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center
980 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta.
404-872-5338. www.callanwolde.org
Johns Creek Arts Center
6290 Abbotts Bridge Road, Building 700, Johns Creek.
770-623-8448. www.johnscreekarts.org
Paint Sip Socialize
259 Glenwood Ave SE Suite A, Atlanta.
770-318-2755. www.paintsipsocialize.com
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