Prep Talk
Can Appreciating Art Help Our Children Fight Disease?
Posted January 11th, 2016
Scientists have discovered that when young adults experience positive emotions such as joy, awe, contentment and amusement, there are physical manifestations—namely, lower levels of cytokines which are markers of inflammation.
Cytokines are chemicals the body manufactures to encourage cells to gird up to fight infections, and many are also linked to health problems like type-2 diabetes, arthritis and heart disease. A study of over 200 young people conducted at California University in Berkeley found that positive emotions of wonder and awe have a significant effect on reducing the production of these cytokines.
The Science of Happiness
Most of us feel physically energized and happy when we’re doing something we love, and not-so-energized (even sick) when we’re under stress. So the Berkeley study may come as no surprise, but it’s one of the first studies to look at the role of positive emotions in health. The things we do to experience those emotions, like appreciating art or music or taking a walk in nature, really do have a direct effect on our physical as well as mental health!
Other studies have shown higher levels of inflammatory cytokines in subjects who suffer from depression and autoimmune diseases, and experts believe these substances block key hormones that control mood, appetite, memory and sleep.
Watch Your Children’s Reactions, and Yours as Well
What activities inspire awe and wonder in your children? Do they love listening to music? Are they outdoor adventurers? What makes their eyes light up with joy? And what about you?
Life can be super-busy for today’s families, and schedules are hectic and stressful; however, these studies underscore the importance of positive emotions in maintaining health. Find out which activities produce wonder, awe and contentment in your children, and make sure there is time in their busy schedule to allow them to participate in some. But don’t forget about yourself. Many parents put off doing things for themselves which can become an unhealthy cycle as well.
Do it Together
One way to help both you and your children find time for these activities is to plan them as a family. Talk about this article with your children. Then make a list of those activities you enjoy the most, and have your children make their own. Share them over dinner, and develop a “family wish list” that everyone can add to.
Carving out time during the month for each person to participate in one of their chosen activities can be challenging, but you’ll probably be surprised at some of the commonalities you share—and those can turn into an awesome vacation or new family traditions. At the very least, you’ll all be healthier (and happier) as a result.