THE ARTIST'S JOURNEY - LESSON TWO: WHY YOU SHOULD CREATE ART, EVEN IF NOT PROFESSIONALLY

It's a little known fact that the brain emits electrical pulses measured by the second, and we have four bands, or rates, in which these impulses are taking place: beta, alpha, theta, and delta. Quite recently there have also been mention of a 5th pulse, named 'Gamma' for us Hulk fans. Although, for the time being, I would prefer to just concentrate on Alpha Brain Wave's, which is one of four electrical pulses your brain maybe operating right now (most likely you’re on beta).

Alpha Brain Wave frequency is the state in which your best ideas formulate and where actual creativity takes place. In practical terms it normally develops during a stage where you're feeling fairly relaxed and your awareness has been expanded. This then gives you the ability to visualize more easily and start working on many forms of visual art, such as Paintings, Drawings, Photography, Pottery and so on. As a matter of fact, one of the many reasons why Art Therapy has been so helpful to people with depression and anxiety problems, is because it allows you to slow down your brain and relax in a Alpha Brain Wave frequency.

"Art is the supreme task and the truly metaphysical activity in this life" -- from "The Birth of Tragedy" (1872) Friedrich Nietzsche.

When you’re practicing art, it brings you into the present moment and to a meditative state of mind. Have you ever heard about that "artist who looked like he was possessed" while working? If so, then it’s because in those cases the artist was so immersed into the process of creation that he’s in a deep "Meditative State", meaning: He’s in Theta Brain Wave Frequency.

There are several benefits in increasing Alpha Brain Waves, and one way to get there is by practicing art! Now you can get a professional opinion on this matter and I'm sure the specialists will tell you about the benefits of Alpha Brain Waves at a more detailed level. But, for now, here are just a few examples of the benefits brought about by the Alpha Brain Wave frequency:

• Increases Creativity.
• Increases Problem Solving Abilities.
• Improved Mood and Stability of Emotions.
• Improve Performance / Getting in Peak Performance.
• Enhance Immune System.
• Levels of Serotonin. 

Practicing art doesn't only 'get' you into a Alpha state of Mind, which is good, but in addition to this, creating something can also give you a sense of purpose and accomplishment, especially when a unified collaboration allows you to give service to something greater than yourself. Expressing your feelings in a tangible way helps you to understand and be at peace with yourself and others around you.

Please note, I’m not a psychologist or health specialist, so I would strongly encourage you to talk to one of these people about this subject -- as that's what I did!! It's just that from my point of view, an artist's point of view, I'm trying to share what little I know about art and it’s inadvertent benefits. I have been working in this field for a long time now, and first hand I know how it has helped me: Not only by paying the bills but in my physical and physiological health. I hope it helps you too. So, what are you waiting for? Grab that piece of paper and start drawing today!

NEXT: Materials: Traditional vs Digital

This article was brought to you by Brazilian born, Rod Rodollfo from Alpha Brain Art Studio. Please feel free to download the Master Page Template used by Rod on many Published Comic Books by clicking here! And while you're at it, don't forget to follow him on his website, twitter, and facebook pages.