3 Reasons Why Being in The Audience is Good for Your Health

Introduction

I just returned from a week long trip to Sydney and I got cultured! 

I had five glorious live events on my schedule and also made time to visit a few art galleries.

Not only were the performances and exhibits invigorating, inspiring, as well as sometimes challenging, turns out my art consumption was good for my health!

I think intuitively we know that we get pleasure from attending live events and in a world filled with screens and digital distractions, the allure of live performances remains unmatched. - think of the lasting joy when you see a concert by your favourite artist.

Great news:

Recent scientific studies have shed light on the numerous health benefits associated with attending live performances and visiting art galleries - yay science. Whether it's a play, concert, or dance performance, the experience of being part of a live audience goes beyond mere entertainment. Let's explore some of the compelling reasons why immersing yourself in the magic of a live shows and art galleries can be a tonic for your well-being.

Here’s one of my favourite artworks from the week. It’s by Kathleen Ryan and is made out of semi-precious stones. The title? Bad Lemon https://www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au/collection/works/20.2023/

And now, On With The Show Blog…

 4 Reasons Why Live Art is Good for Our Health

1. Reduced Stress Levels: The Therapeutic Effect of Live Performances and Art

The immersive experience of both live performances and viewing artworks in person has a profound impact on stress reduction.

Published research found that attending a live concert can lead to a significant decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. It said, The stress-reducing effect of music listening in daily life varies depending on the presence of others. 

Another study showed, Live music performance offers a special experience that is impossible through speakers or a headphone.  This study showed that audience member’s heart rates changed with faster pieces only when seeing a live performance versus a recording of the very same concert. The live concert also increased the vagus nerve response, the very same nerve that when stimulated helps keep us in our “rest and digest” parasympathetic nervous system.

There is also promising research that shows that viewing art can reduce stress so get thee to a gallery!

2. Enhanced Mood and Emotional Well-being: The Power of Aesthetic Pleasure

Live performances and artworks have the ability to elicit a wide range of emotions, contributing to an enhanced mood and emotional well-being. I’ve already told you that last week during my Sydney sojourn I was invigorated, inspired, and challenged.

Research by a neurobiologist at the University College London, showed that viewing art stimulates the feel good hormone dopamine. This suggests that engaging in cultural activities, including attending live performances and viewing art, is linked to a higher level of overall life satisfaction. The aesthetic pleasure derived from experiencing art and live performances provides a unique and immersive journey that can uplift your spirits and leave you with a lasting sense of joy.

3. Social Connection and Community Bonding: Shared Experiences in the Art World

One of the reasons that we like going to shows, especially hearing music, with others, is because in that group situation our brain waves sync up.

Similar to live performances, viewing artworks in real life fosters a sense of community and social connection. In the late 1980’s when I lived in Chicago my sister came to visit and we saw a Monet exhibit at the Art Institute. For years we talked about it and seeing it together brought us closer. 

Research has also shown that sharing the experience of art with others can strengthen social ties, leading to an increased feeling of belonging and support and helping to reduce loneliness.

The study that I found most compelling for why being in the audience is good for us showed that field trips to live theatre or art galleries had significant educational benefits for students. The findings showed enhanced literary knowledge, tolerance, and empathy among grade 7-12 students so it seems a no-brainer that arts education and specifically live experiences, benefits not only the health of the student but society as a whole. 

Conclusion:

In a world where the pursuit of well-being is paramount, the benefits of being an audience member at live performances and viewing artworks in real life are increasingly recognised.

From reducing stress levels to fostering social connections and cognitive stimulation, the science behind these health benefits is compelling. So, the next time you have the opportunity to attend a live play, concert, or performance or explore an art gallery, savour the experience not just for its entertainment or aesthetic value but also for the positive impact it can have on your health and overall well-being.

Verbrugghen Hall, Sydney Conservatorium - an amazing place to hear music

Art Gallery NSW with Louise Bourgeious’ Maman 1999 out front

Kandinsky quote

The incomparable Sydney Opera House

Hope you enjoyed this read as well as some of my travel pics, now go and become an audience member or a gallery aficionado to reap the health benefits available to you.

Cheers,

xBec

I’ll leave you with some wise words from Mr. Pilates

The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this blog are not intended to amount to advice and Rebecca Forde disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this post

cover and social photo by Paolo Chiabrando