Feeling stressed? Try gazing at a painting

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-07-02 08:37

New Zealand; International

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Early but promising evidence suggests viewing artwork may help to lower stress, according to research that canvassed 14 existing studies. The Auckland-based research team found 13 of the 14 studies on self-reported stress found that stress reduced after viewing artworks. Four of the studies tested blood pressure, and all of these reported lowered blood pressure after looking at art. The team says more, stronger research is needed to test these initial findings.