A thing of beauty is a joy forever, by John Keats, published in 1818, has inspired many writers, thinkers, and aesthetes of every generation. Joy is eternal; it is the inspiration for every great achievement known to humankind. It gives a sense of well-being and peace, soothes the worn-out body and mind alike, and attracts the young and old alike.
Pure joy is unparalleled. It transcends pleasure, fleeting moments of happiness and alike. It is extraordinarily inspiring and propels each one to do one’s best. It is subtle and smooth and gives a high which cannot be explained in words. It is divine and mystical at once.
Beauty is not just about physical appearance — though it does begin with that, it takes you much deeper — to the very intent of everything that one does.
At the same time, as we endeavour to cover every aspect of this beauty and look for ways to enhance it, one cannot do away with the exterior—for that is where it all begins.
Says Pooja Rahangdale, an experienced beauty expert who runs a successful salon called Pristine in Pune’s Baner locality, “Beauty is more about how each one feels about oneself. It enhances self-confidence and, in turn, builds self-worth. Just as a child is attracted to a beautiful toy, the human mind is drawn to anything that is beautiful, be it a flower, scenery, person or thing. It is a natural instinct.” Human beings are creative by nature — therefore, they will always be attracted to creativity. At the core of anything that is beautiful — be it natural or manmade — there is always an innate creativity manifesting itself — human beings are attracted to it.
No wonder beauty has immense value. Today, it is one of the most profitable businesses in the world. Dior, L’oreal, MAC, and Estee Lauder have built empires by selling cosmetics.
Why does beauty have therapeutic value — Engaging with beauty—whether through art, nature, music, or architecture—can provide a soothing and uplifting experience. “Studies have shown that exposure to beautiful environments can reduce stress and lower cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone. Beautiful experiences often evoke positive emotions,” says Dr Aparna Kulkarni, counsellor. For example, viewing a beautiful piece of art or listening to soothing music can elevate mood, providing a temporary escape from life’s stresses and anxieties. “Beauty often requires and encourages mindfulness, drawing attention away from negative thoughts and into the present moment,” explains artist Ajay De, whose charcoal paintings have been sold for millions across the globe. This focus on the present can promote relaxation and mental clarity. Beauty can inspire creativity and motivation. For instance, a beautifully designed workspace or a piece of inspiring art can boost productivity and inspire a sense of enthusiasm. Engaging with or creating beauty can be a form of self-expression, helping individuals explore and articulate their inner experiences and emotions.
Beauty has a multifaceted therapeutic value. It not only enhances our immediate emotional state but also contributes to long-term mental, emotional, and physical health. Embracing and integrating beauty into daily life can be a powerful tool for improving overall quality of life. Suggests Pooja, “Incorporate beauty into your self-care routines, such as using aesthetically pleasing skincare products or creating a relaxing bath experience with beautiful scents and colours.”
By consciously incorporating these strategies into your life, you can enhance the therapeutic value of beauty and experience its profound benefits on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
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