Harnessing the healing power of creativity: exploring the role of art in healthcare through art, dance, and music therapy

Abstract

Art therapy, dance therapy, and music therapy have emerged as complementary and integrative approaches to healthcare, providing powerful avenues for healing, growth, and self-discovery. This narrative review explores the multifaceted role of these therapeutic interventions, examining their mechanisms, applications, and evidence-based benefits in promoting health and well-being across diverse populations and clinical settings. Music therapy has been shown to have a range of applications in healthcare, particularly in improving the general ambience of hospital settings. Dance therapy, also known as dance/movement therapy (DMT), harnesses the therapeutic power of movement to improve physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. Integrating art therapy into healthcare settings supports patient healing and well-being and enhances the working environment for healthcare providers. These new integrative approaches in healthcare settings offer benefits such as enjoyment, satisfaction, improvements in health and wellbeing, social connections, and relaxation for participants.