The Healing Power of the Arts: A Conversation with Daisy Fancourt

In this episode, Daisy Fancourt joins me to discuss her new book, 'Art Cure,' that explores the profound impact of arts on mental and physical health. The conversation touches on various aspects of how engagement in creative activities, like music, literature, and even carnival arts, can serve as significant health pillars, much like diet, exercise, and sleep. Daisy, a professor of psychobiology and epidemiology at University College London, shares insights from her journey from being a professional pianist to a scientist studying the arts' effects on health. She delves into scientific findings supporting the arts' ability to boost immune function, reduce inflammation, and even slow biological aging. The discussion covers the potential of social prescriptions for the arts, the importance of maintaining regular engagement, and the balance between passive and active participation in creative activities. Listeners will gain practical takeaways and a deeper understanding of how the arts can contribute to overall well-being.00:00 Introduction and Book Launch01:31 Daisy's Background and Journey03:12 The Science Behind Art and Health04:50 From Research to Popular Book05:56 Practical Applications and Daily Engagement12:02 Biological Impacts of Art23:52 Social Prescribing and Global Impact25:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you’d like to get in touch with Daisy or find out about her live events, you can do so here at: https://sbbresearch.org/projects/artcure/ If you enjoyed this conversation do subscribe to my Substack (https://bibliotherapywithbijal.substack.com/) where you can find similar episodes as well as copy of transcripts to all episodes if you are short of time. Email us at [email protected] Support the showDon't forget to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and get new episodes as they are released. If you'd like access to the transcripts, do subscribe to my substack: Bibliotherapy with Bijal Shah - Transcripts on Substack.If you'd like a bibliotherapist in your pocket then you might find my book, Bibliotherapy: The Healing Power of Reading a helpful companion.******************************************************************************************Get 10% off with code PODCAST on the following:Online Bibliotherapy CoursesPersonalised Book PrescriptionsBibliotherapy SessionsYou can also follow us on your preferred platform using the links below:InstagramFacebook