By Dr. Michelle Greenwell | Greenwell Center for Holistic Health
Have you ever picked up a paintbrush and felt your whole body soften? Or looked at a colour and instantly felt more grounded, energized, or at ease? That’s not just creativity at work — it’s science.
This week we begin an extraordinary 16-week journey with the Magnifying Peace Project, and our very first video release is led by artist and intuitive guide Marian Egan, founder of Heart Art Magic. In her video, Marian paints her vision of peace, letting colour, movement, and emotion guide her hand. It’s not just a painting — it’s a peace practice in action.
🎨 Colour and the Brain: Why It Matters
Research shows that colour stimulates the limbic system, the part of the brain that regulates emotion, memory, and behavior. Different colours evoke different responses:
- đź’™ Blue can lower heart rate and calm anxiety.
- đź’š Green is associated with harmony and balance.
- đź’– Pink promotes compassion and care.
- đź’› Yellow can lift mood and spark creativity.
When we consciously engage with colour — through painting, visual art, or even clothing — we’re using a non-verbal language to process emotions, reset the nervous system, and return to center.
🖌️ The Calming Power of Art
According to a 2016 study published in Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, just 45 minutes of creative activity significantly reduces cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone — regardless of skill level or experience.
Art isn’t about being perfect. It’s about:
- Slowing down
- Accessing intuition
- Processing emotion safely
- Creating new neural pathways for peace and healing
When Marian paints with both hands, she activates both hemispheres of the brain — creating an integrated experience that enhances focus, creativity, and a deep sense of presence.
✨ From Canvas to Connection
Painting doesn’t just change the way we feel — it changes how we relate. When we allow our creative expression to flow, we soften defensiveness, enhance self-awareness, and open space for compassionate conversation with others.
This is how peace starts.
Not in policy. Not in perfection.
But in a quiet moment with colour, breath, and intention.
🕊️ Watch Marian’s Painting of Peace | Video 1 Now Live!
We’re so excited to release the first episode of the Magnifying Peace Project on both of our YouTube channels.
đź’» Watch now on:
🔗 Marian’s Channel @marianegantransformationalhealth
🔗 Michelle’s Channel
🎥 New videos will release every Wednesday for the next 16 weeks, offering you small, PEACEful actions to inspire your body, mind, and spirit. Whether it’s movement, intention, breathwork, tea, or art — there’s a pathway for everyone to discover peace from within and ripple it out into the world.
🌟 Take Action With Us
Want to participate in the Magnifying Peace Project? Here’s how:
âś… Watch the weekly videos
âś… Create your own PEACEful moments using the inspiration shared
âś… Comment, Like & Share to magnify our impact
✅ Reflect on how your daily choices create a more peaceful life — and world
âś… Use the hashtag #MagnifyingPeace and tag us to show your creative actions!
Peace isn’t passive. It’s a practice.
And it begins… with you.
Let colour be your guide. Let your hands move freely. Let your heart speak in strokes and softness. And above all — let peace be something you choose today.
Looking for a peaceful tea? Begin with Mission4Change CommuniTEA. You can learn more here. Order from the shop and have it delivered right to your door.
Wanting to find peaceful movement? Join our special Movement and Music Class, and get started with your daily practice.
Did you miss the podcast about the Magnifying Peace Project this week? Check it out…
đź’— With peace and creativity,
Dr. Michelle Greenwell
Greenwell Center for Holistic Health
www.greenwellcenter.com