A visit to the museum is an exciting adventure that can be a transformative experience. The vast array of exhibits, objects, and paintings is a feast for the eyes, as well as inspirational and immersive. Art exists in various forms and styles that appeal to different people. You may favor the images of nature or depictions of modern life in impressionist paintings, or the way expressions and characteristics are captured in portraits. Our reactions to art are subjective, but it’s most often a pleasurable experience. This is due to the sensory aspects that make us feel more optimistic, engaged, creative, and emotionally intelligent. We’re not often aware of the reasons why this occurs, but it’s actually connected to the functioning of different parts of the brain.

Neuroaesthetics is a discipline within cognitive neuroscience that explores the neural aspects of aesthetic experiences, encompassing visual and performing arts. This involves understanding the biological bases of our insights, emotions, interpretations, and actions (Magsamen et al., 2023). When we experience art, the sensory-motor areas, emotional regions, and reward-related centers of our brains are activated (Gallese & Di Dio, 2012). Viewing art increases the level of blood flow and levels of dopamine in our brains, which intensifies feelings of pleasure and promotes critical thinking. The term "neuroaesthetics’’ was originally coined by neurobiologist Semir Zeki pertaining to the investigation of neural processes for the perception of beauty in art (Derke et al., 2023).

Going to a museum or a performing arts event facilitates self-reflection, mindfulness, and introspection about our lived experiences. It can transport us to a different place and time and let our imaginations run wild. Even for a brief period, these art forms can help us escape from all the chaos in the world. Studies indicate that experiencing art, music, and dance can reduce........

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