Spotlight|August 4, 2026

When we think about preventing chronic disease and living healthier lives, diet, exercise, and sleep often dominate the conversation. But a growing body of research is examining another piece of the puzzle: the role that creativity, culture, play, and meaningful activities may have in supporting our health.

A recent Wall Street Journal piece highlighted new research from University College London finding an association between regular arts and cultural engagement, from visiting museums and attending concerts to singing and dancing, and better biological markers associated with long-term health. The findings add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the arts may influence biological processes related to stress, inflammation, and overall health.

The evidence extends well beyond one study. After reviewing more than 3,000 studies, the World Health Organization concluded that the arts can support health across a wide range of conditions and outcomes, including Parkinson’s disease, stroke recovery, dementia, depression and anxiety, and chronic pain. Mass Cultural Council reports that as of 2024, one of the nation’s leading health systems, Mass General Brigham, is now partnering with Art Pharmacy to study whether “arts prescriptions,” including museum visits, concerts, dance, creative writing, and other cultural experiences, can help patients better manage high blood pressure by reducing stress and improving overall well-being.

The potential benefits can extend beyond adults. In Philadelphia, the Center for Emerging Visual Artists is relaunching its Hand-in-Hand Outreach Program, which brings creative workshops to children facing housing instability, involvement in the child welfare system, and limited access to arts education. Research cited by The Philadelphia Citizen suggests that art-based interventions may support emotional well-being and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression among children and adolescents.

And in Colorado, the Lone Tree Arts Center and Parkinson Association of the Rockies have partnered on performative movement classes for people living with Parkinson’s disease. The program combines movement, creative expression, and community while challenging participants to practice motor skills that can be affected by the disease.

From a museum visit or dance class to painting, play, and creative movement, these stories point toward a broader view of health, one that recognizes that preventing and managing chronic disease isn’t shaped only by what happens in the kitchen, the gym, or the doctor’s office. It is also influenced by the everyday experiences that reduce stress, foster social connection, encourage movement, and bring meaning and joy to our lives.

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