Denver's Art Week: A Feast for the Mind and Body

Denver is known for its outdoor adventures, but did you know that art can be just as good for you as a hike? Science says that making and enjoying art can make you healthier. It can lower stress, improve your brain, and even help with long-term pain. This year, Denver Arts Week is adding "Art & Well-Being" to its lineup. The goal is to show how art can be a big part of staying healthy. More than 600 events are happening from November 7 to 16, with almost 220 groups taking part. Some of these events are part of a special program called "Flourishing Through the Arts and Science. " Shannon Robinson started this program. She hopes it will help more people see how important art is and maybe even change how we fund and teach art. Art is often seen as a luxury, but it shouldn't be. Earlier this year, some arts groups in Colorado lost money because of changes in funding. But new research shows that art is good for us. It can help with Alzheimer's, dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Art therapy can also make people feel less stressed and help them solve problems. The Denver Art Museum and other groups are joining in. They will offer free talks, shows, and tours. On the first day, there will be a tour of an art show and a talk about how art can make us healthier. The museum will also host a special event where people can react to art through drawing and writing. Art can bring people together and make communities stronger. It can also help people express themselves in healthy ways. The Denver Art Museum has programs like Mindful Looking, where people can slow down and enjoy art. This can help with stress and make people feel better. Art is like exercise for your brain. It should be part of our daily lives, just like eating well and staying active. Denver Arts Week is a great chance to try new things and see how art can make you healthier and happier.