Such hobbies can rejuvenate the brain – up to a seven-year effect
Creative hobbies like dance, visual arts, and music can rejuvenate the brain, according to research published in Nature Communications.
A recent study published in the journal Nature Communications has highlighted the cognitive benefits of engaging in creative hobbies such as dance, visual arts, and music. The research examined the biological brain age of over 1,400 individuals, measuring parameters that contributed to determining the brain's physiological condition through unique 'brain clocks'. These findings demonstrate that healthy lifestyle choices, including regular physical activity and monitoring blood pressure, play a significant role in brain wellness.
Notably, the study found a striking correlation between engaging in creative activities and a reduction in biological brain age. Individuals involved in creative professions, such as musicians and dancers, exhibited brain ages that were, on average, 4 to 7 years younger than their actual chronological ages. This suggests that pursuing creativity may provide protective effects against cognitive decline and promote longevity in brain health.
The implications of this research are substantial, as they not only underscore the importance of creative expression for mental health but also encourage a holistic approach to cognitive wellness that includes physical activity and healthy living. Encouraging people to pursue creative hobbies could foster better mental resilience and enhance overall life satisfaction, especially as they age.