Researcher: art could help you live longer and healthier
UCL professor Daisy Fancourt explains scientific evidence showing how engaging with the arts affects the brain and body. She argues art should be integrated into everyday healthcare.
In an episode of France 24's show "Entre Nous," journalist Delano D'Souza spoke with Daisy Fancourt, a professor at University College London (UCL) who has spent years researching how the arts influence the human brain and body.
In her book "Art Cure," Fancourt draws together scientific evidence showing how creative activities — including music, painting, theatre and other art forms — can improve people's physical and mental wellbeing. She explains the mechanisms through which art affects the body and why it could play a genuine role in preventing and treating illness.
Practical guidance
The book also offers concrete guidance on how people can make better use of the arts in daily life to maximise the health benefits. Fancourt's research suggests that regularly engaging in creative activities may be linked to better overall health outcomes and, potentially, a longer lifespan.
The full interview is available in the France 24 "Entre Nous" archive, where Fancourt elaborates on her research approach and its practical applications.
/nginx/o/2025/02/04/16635947t1h5701.jpg)
