The Science of Art: How to Rewire Your Brain and Manifest Your Dreams with NeuroArts Expert Anna Denning

Podcast
Written By Create! Magazine

Have you ever picked up a pen to doodle during a stressful phone call and felt your shoulders drop? Or perhaps you’ve noticed how a visit to a gallery shifts your entire mood?

It turns out, this isn't just a feeling—it’s science.

In this episode of the Create! Podcast, I sat down with Anna Denning, a multimedia artist and the founder of the NeuroArts School, to discuss the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and creativity. Anna is leading a movement in Neuroesthetics—the study of how aesthetic experiences influence our brains and biology.

If you have ever felt guilty for taking time to "just" draw or paint, this episode gives you the scientific permission slip you need to prioritize your creative practice.

More Than Just a Pretty Picture

Anna’s journey into NeuroArts began in her childhood. Her mother, a psychotherapist, would ask her to draw houses or trees to psychoanalyze her emotions. Early on, Anna understood that art wasn't just about creating a beautiful picture; it was a powerful tool to work with the mind, calm down, and balance emotions.

Today, Anna teaches that engaging in art—whether viewing it or creating it—can harmonize hormones and support emotional well-being, which is especially powerful for those going through major life transitions like menopause.

The Science of Manifestation

One of the most exciting parts of our conversation centered on Anna’s collaboration with spiritual teacher Colette Baron-Reid on their book, The Art of Manifesting.

While manifestation can sometimes feel abstract, Anna breaks it down with neuroscience. She explains that when you draw with intention, you engage your frontal lobe and switch on the Reticular Activating System (RAS) in your brain. This part of the brain acts as a filter; once activated by your creative intention, it starts scanning your environment for opportunities that match your desires.

Anna calls this "Intentional Synchronicity"—where you create art about a desire, and then watch as "happy coincidences" start appearing in your life.

How to "Start Small" (And Beat Overwhelm)

We live in a busy world, and staring at a blank canvas can feel intimidating. If you are feeling blocked or overwhelmed, Anna suggests a counter-intuitive approach: Go smaller.

"I always advise my students or people who start drawing, start really small, just take a tiny little paper... and start doodling," Anna says.

You don't need hours of free time. Even 10 to 15 minutes of doodling before bed can help you switch gears, calm your nervous system, and improve your sleep.

Expanding Your Definition of Art

Finally, it is important to remember that "NeuroArts" isn't limited to painting. Anna encourages us to embrace a multimedia approach to healing. This includes:

  • Writing or reciting poetry.

  • Singing or listening to music.

  • Exploring Tarot and archetypes.

  • Connecting with nature and crystals.

Listen to the Full Episode

Ready to rewire your brain and start co-creating with the universe? Join us for this inspiring conversation to learn how you can use simple art tools to heal your nervous system and manifest your dreams.

In this episode, we cover:

  • What is NeuroArts and how it affects the brain.

  • How to use "Intentional Synchronicity" to manifest opportunities.

  • Why "starting small" is the secret to consistency.

  • The healing power of creative rituals.

Connect with Anna Denning

YouTube: Anna Denning Arts (Weekly mini-classes and guided drawings)

Instagram: @AnnaDenningArts

School: NeuroArts School and A.M. Method Teacher Training

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