Episode 139: On Seeking Art & Beauty, and why it Matters more than you think!
In more recent years the science of ‘neuro-aesthetics’ has given us much to ponder in terms of understanding the importance of art and beauty in our lives. I share my personal experience and sound research on the positive side effects that seeking art, travel and beauty in our lives has on our mental health, neuro-plasticity and longevity.
This is a broad topic yet I cite recent book publications and examples on the importance of art, creativity and travel and how there are many positive flow on effects in our lives.
Cappella Scrovegni in Padova, Italy
Marino Marini in Milan at the Novocento Museum
Shownotes:
The Signs by Dr Tara Swart
The Source by Dr Tara Swart
Reductionism in Art and Brain Science: Bridging the Two Cultures by Eric Kandel
Beyond Anxiety by Martha Beck
Scrovegni Chapel in Padua Italy (Padova in the Veneto is a special place to see the Giotto frescoes)
Enjoying art and appreciating a beautiful object or beautiful architecture is really good for you. Tara Swart said, the act of “beholding” - a word that describes taking a moment in life to look at something beautiful - “shifts the brain from a fear state, cortisol to a love state, oxytocin”. When we have these moments, this “stimulates neuroplasticity” - Dr Tara Swart, The Signs
One of my favourite travel moments - Lunch in the stunning Restaurant - Le Train Blue in Paris
Just walking the streets in Paris is so beautiful - there is wonderful architecture and enchanting cafes to behold.
Musee Picasso in Paris has sumptuous architecture inside the museum….
Paris is food for the soul - just wondering the streets taking notice of the many beautiful details is a perfect day…
Inside the NotreDame Paris - Matisse Cut Outs on the wall - so beautiful
A Parisian moment of light and beauty
Cafe Le Nesle in the 6th Arrondissement