Being a culture vulture boosts wellbeing
Painting, music and dance could be used as tools to boost health
Taking part in artistic hobbies such as dancing, painting or playing a musical instrument can make people feel healthier and happier, according to new research.
A study conducted at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) highlighted that even attending cultural events such as plays or concerts can make people less prone to depression.
It was noted that there was a positive relationship between cultural participation and self-perceived health for both women and men - however, only male participants who took part in cultural activities were found to have a lower risk of depression.
The study also highlighted that people's socioeconomic status did not affect the findings, with individuals from all areas of society feeling the benefits of cultural hobbies.
Discussing the findings, the research team stated that while there is not enough evidence to state that culture actually makes people healthy, the study could be used to challenge the way people think about health.
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"We in the health services do not always have control over the most effective preventive tools given the range of today's illnesses. We need to increasingly focus on opportunities rather than on risk," commented Steinar Krokstad, an associate professor at NTNU.
Brits could find their cultural participation boosted in the coming years with the news that 13 towns and cities are vying to be named the nation's first City of Culture.
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