PRACTICING THE “NEURO ARTS” (REVISITING THEM THIS MONTH!)
The Connection Between Ultradian Rests and the Neuro Arts
In the last three installments, we spoke about Ultradian Stress Syndrome and Ultradian Rest. (read them HERE) Being mindfully aware of these two modes of living can either keep us on an unhealthy or healthy trajectory. Ultradian cycles are part of our natural rhythms, and when we honor these breaks by incorporating rest, hydration, and nourishment into our day, we support our body’s ability to stay balanced, energized, and focused. On the other hand, ignoring these cycles can leave us depleted, unfocused, and stressed, leading to negative effects on both our mental and physical health.
Here, I’d like to shift our focus back to something we spoke about a couple of months ago: the Neuro Arts. On December 22nd, I look forward to presenting at NEFESH International on this very topic: Neuro Arts in Practice: Custom Tailored Tools for Therapists. (See the event details HERE) During this presentation, I’ll explore how therapists can introduce their clients to Neuro Arts activities tailored to their unique talents and interests, adding depth and creativity to the healing process. The Neuro Arts, much like Ultradian rest activities, are not only a way to pause and refresh but also a path to engage deeper parts of our brain and body for self-expression, healing, and growth. By strategically incorporating these into your day, you can maximize your productivity and overall sense of well-being.
What Are the Neuro Arts?
The Neuro Arts encompass a wide range of creative, sensory, and aesthetic activities that activate specific hormones, neurotransmitters and neural pathways, fostering emotional resilience, reducing stress, and enhancing physical and mental health. Examples include painting, drawing, journaling, music-making, singing, guided imagery, dance, and even nature-based practices like gardening or forest bathing. These activities tap into the brain’s neuroplasticity—its ability to change and grow. Whether you’re creating art, writing poetry, or even improvising music, these actions stimulate emotional processing and promote a state of flow, where creativity and calm merge.
Neuro Arts During Ultradian Breaks
The Neuro Arts fit perfectly into the framework of Ultradian Rest because they are activities that engage and soothe the mind while providing a restorative break. When we take short, intentional pauses during the day to engage in something creative or calming, we recharge both mentally and physically.
Imagine setting aside 10-20 minutes during your workday to:
- Doodle or sketch something in a notebook.
- Listen to a favorite piece of music and let yourself truly absorb it.
- Step outside to photograph the beauty of nature around you.
- Journal about your day, writing whatever comes to mind.
- Engage in mindful movement, or a short dance to a flowing, uplifting, or silly song.
These small but intentional activities can help you step away from stress and return to your tasks feeling rejuvenated, focused, and emotionally grounded.
Why the Neuro Arts Matter
Creative and sensory engagement impacts multiple dimensions of well-being:
- Physically: Reduces stress hormones, improves immune function, and even lowers blood pressure.
- Emotionally: Helps process complex feelings, reduces anxiety, and enhances self-esteem.
- Socially: When done with others, Neuro Arts promote connection, empathy, and communication.
- Cognitively: Enhances problem-solving skills, memory, and focus.
These benefits are why Neuro Arts aren’t just for artists or those who identify as creative—they’re for everyone. You don’t need special skills or training to draw, sing, write, or move. The goal isn’t to produce something “perfect” but to engage with the process and let it restore and inspire you. Check out this handout (HERE) to try your own Neuro Arts activities at home!
We love hearing from you, please feel free to leave your comments below.
With Gratitude,
Rus Devorah
