Scientists have proven the connection of involvement in art with slowing down aging
A recent study by University College London (UCL) has shown that regularly reading books, listening to music, and visiting galleries or museums can slow down the rate of biological aging. This was reported on May 11 by Medical Xpress magazine.
The researchers analyzed data from surveys and blood tests of 3,556 UK adults. They also compared the participants' cultural activity with chemical changes in DNA that affect biological age without changing the genetic code. It turned out that people who often devote time to different types of art have a lower rate of aging and a lower biological age.
The effect of cultural leisure turned out to be comparable with the results of regular physical training. For example, people who engage in creative activities or attend cultural events at least once a week age 4% slower than those who rarely pay attention to it. A similar indicator was recorded when comparing active athletes with those who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
Daisy Fancourt, lead author of the study and professor at the UCL Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health
These results demonstrate the impact of art on health on a biological level. They provide evidence that participating in art and culture should be considered a health-improving activity, similar to physical exercise.
According to her, involvement in various types of art can be especially useful, since each activity has its own "ingredients" for health: physical, cognitive, emotional or social stimulation. The closest relationship between hobbies and longevity can be traced in middle—aged and older people - 40 years and older.
Co-author of the work, Feifei Bu, a doctor from the UCL Institute of Epidemiology and Public Health, stressed that the study provides the first evidence linking art and culture with slower rates of biological aging. According to the expert, this complements the growing body of data on the effects of art on the body.
Medical Xpress on April 21 highlighted the benefits of music and travel for the brain. Researchers have found that physical, social, and intellectual activity in middle age improves cognitive function and may reduce the risk of dementia.
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