The Healing Power of Art in Healthcare

Can art help the body heal? At Mayo Clinic, care goes beyond vital signs. Through the Arts at the Bedside program — part of the Humanities in Medicine initiative — patients use creativity to reduce stress, find purpose and reconnect with themselves during some of life’s most difficult moments. On this episode of Health Matters, host Kristen Meinzer explores how art supports healing with two powerful perspectives: • Robin Anderson, an artist who brings painting, crafts and conversation directly to patients’ hospital rooms • Katie White, a heart transplant patient who discovered a new sense of purpose — and launched a jewelry business — through art during her recovery Together, they share how creative expression can: • Reduce stress and anxiety in the hospital • Help manage pain and improve emotional well-being • Restore a sense of control during uncertain times • Support both mental and physical recovery This episode highlights the growing evidence behind arts in healthcare — and the deeply human stories that bring that research to life. Subscribe for more health insights from Mayo Clinic: New episodes explore the latest medical research, expert advice and real patient stories to help you live a healthier life. 0:00 Introduction to arts and medicine 0:53 What is Arts at the Bedside 1:20 Robin Anderson joins the conversation 3:17 How bedside art supports healing 4:13 Which patients benefit from the program 4:49 What a typical bedside visit includes 8:24 Creative projects that foster connection 11:41 A patient’s transformation through art 18:17 How arts programs help patients heal 19:15 Katie White’s transplant waiting experience 22:15 Discovering clay and creative focus 28:01 From hospital hobby to business From Mayo Clinic to your inbox (free): https://mayocl.in/3e71zfi Visit Mayo Clinic: https://mayocl.in/2COVmlm Connect with Mayo Clinic: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mayoclinic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayoclinic X: https://x.com/MayoClinic Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mayoclinic