The 2024 Community Health Classroom explored the powerful connection between the arts, brain health, and healing. Jessie Colavita Hoskins, PA-C, of Memory & Movement Charlotte, explained how music stimulates brain chemistry and how creating art can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Marianne Huebner, Art Therapist at HopeWay, led a calming drawing and breathing exercise, demonstrating how art can support emotional well-being. A HopeWay alum, Jess, shared her inspiring personal journey of how art and music therapy helped her move from struggling to thriving. Meg Stanley Johnson and Dr. Yu-Ling Chen of Queens University of Charlotte engaged attendees in interactive music therapy exercises that demonstrated how rhythm, movement, and creative expression can foster connection and healing. Through these hands-on experiences and powerful personal stories, attendees discovered that the arts are more than creative expression—they are valuable tools for healing, connection, and well-being.
