Pottery, painting or piano-playing – whatever gets your creative juices flowing will boost your mood, according to new research.
Almost 50,000 people took part in the BBC Arts Great British Creativity Test.
It suggested that being creative can help avoid stress, free up mind space and improve self-development, which helps build self-esteem.
The findings also said there are emotional benefits from taking part in even a single session of creativity.
But there are cumulative benefits from regular engagement in arts activities and trying new pursuits is particularly good for our emotions and wellbeing, it suggests.
The results were revealed on Wednesday as part of the Get Creative Festival – the UK-wide celebration of creativity that runs from 11-19 May.
The survey found that of the sample:
- 76% of participants used creative activities as a “distraction tool” to block out stress and anxiety
- 69% used them as a “self-development tool” to build up self-esteem and inner strength
- 53% used them as a “contemplation tool” to get the headspace to reflect on problems and emotions
The survey also revealed that the most benefit comes from taking part in live creative activities that involve face-to-face social interaction, like singing in a choir or taking part in a group painting class.
Virtual creative experiences also have some benefits, but there is not as much gain.
The research project was led by Dr. Daisy Fancourt, a senior research fellow at UCL.
