The Art of Learning

Think back to when you're growing up. Do you remember that weird kid in your class who actually liked to go to school? Well, that was me. I’ve always loved learning new things. I couldn't wait for summer to end so I could go back to school. To a large extent I still feel that way. My field has narrowed down considerably, nowadays most of my learning is art related. 

I try to take at least one class or workshop each year. This year I am taking a collage workshop, a watercolor class and traveling to NC for a week long intensive class with an artist I admire (twice!!) It’s easy to tell myself I don’t have the time, or I should spend the money somewhere else. We can come up with a million excuses  for not putting ourselves and our passions first. One never regrets learning something new.  In painting, no matter how accomplished you become, there is always something more to learn.

I find that it’s good to be a beginner at something.  You know that feeling of not knowing what you are doing, asking questions everyone else seems to know the answer to, and wanting to hide your work so no one else sees?  I deliberately try to put myself in that situation.

Why??!?

Learning something new:

1. Increases your mental wellbeing and happiness.
2. Improves your brain health and memory.
3. Fosters connection with others.
4. Keeps you relevant.
5. Increases eye hand coordination 
6. Makes you more interesting. 

Neurologists tell us that learning a new skill changes the physical structures of the brain. By stimulating neurons in the brain, more neural pathways are formed; the more pathways that are formed, the faster impulses can travel. 

This brain chemistry increases the white matter (myelin) in your brain. Learning in later life is a way to protect the brain against ageing because it promotes ‘neuroplasticity’, the brain’s ability to develop new neural pathways. 

It helps you gain a new perspective on the world around you and trains your brain to handle a wide range of challenges. Classes and courses are great ways to do this. 

Spending time on something creative – whether learning to kayak or taking up coding – has threefold benefits. It acts as a distraction from stress; it allows you the  mental space to reassess your problems; it builds up self-esteem and confidence when you meet and overcome your challenges. When people face and overcome challenges, it can increase  confidence. They’ll be more educated on the subject matter and feel better about themselves .

What's the next thing you want to go out and learn?