For better health, invest your time into a creative activity. A 2010 research review by the American Journal of Public Health found that people engaging in activities such as music, dance, writing and making visual art received many mental health benefits including:

•Improved well-being;

•Decreased negative emotions;

•Increased positive emotions;

•Reduced incidence of depression;

•Reduced stress and anxiety;

•Improved positive identity.

Another study documented creativity impacted cells inside a patients body and improved the immune system. This was shown in a study of HIV patients engaged in creative writing which was published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine.

If you are ready to spend some time creating art, the Austin ArtWorks Center has two great year-round opportunities for you.

Family Art Studio is held the second Saturday of the month at the ArtWorks Center from 1-3 p.m. Drop in as a family and get creative with materials provided.

You’ll find everything from mosaic to paints to weaving available. An adult guide is available to help you navigate the materials. Family Art Studio is free to attend with funding by the Austin Area Foundation. All ages are encouraged to attend and create together, children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. I think of it as a way to do a cool family art project like you see on Pinterest but without making a big mess in my house.

Friday Open Studio is held from 10 a.m. to noon every Friday at the ArtWorks Center. Austin Area Arts member artists gather, bringing their own materials, and make art together. There is no formal program in this relaxed environment. Artists do tend to admire each others’ work and enjoy the best natural light in downtown Austin. Friday Open Studio is free to members and $5 per session for non members.

Our Clay Cavern is also available to artists to drop in during ArtWorks Center hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Saturdays. Check in at the retail desk for rules and to purchase a membership, locker, block of clay or day pass.

It’s good for your mental health. It’s good for your physical health. You might just make some friends along the way. So what will you create?

Coming soon at the Paramount Theatre

•June 20: $5 Movie: “Singing in the Rain,” 3 and 7:30 p.m.

•June 28: $5 Movie: “Grease,” 3 and 7:30 p.m.

Coming soon at the ArtWorks Center

•June 18: Sandy’s Pop Up Shop, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

•June 20: Teen Drawing Class, 2 p.m.

•June 22: Gallery Opening: Mark Lingl and Barb Orcutt, 5-7 p.m.

•June 23: Bob Ross Landscape Painting, 1 p.m.