The Art of Healing: How Neuroaesthetics and the Infinite Mindset Shape a Thriving Ecosystem

Our past posts have provided information on how our healing ecosystem model, integrating four elements: leadership, structure, climate, and individuals, can provide a framework for addressing the transformation needed to create an environment of healing, collaboration, and positivity. Recognition of the need for an infinite mindset has been detailed in several posts, addressing the work by Simon Sinek, and how we need to move from short term concrete steps to achieving a long-term perspective by focusing on leaving a legacy for those who follow us.

With this in mind, we believe moving beyond more traditional Newtonian reductionist approaches in developing the healing ecosystem will create the environment needed to succeed. Our efforts will be strengthened by an increasing understanding and incorporation of aesthetics into our efforts. What does this mean?

Aesthetics is the study and appreciation of beauty, form, and sensory experiences that shape human perception and emotion. Neuroaesthetics is the study of how the brain responds to aesthetic experiences and plays a profound role in supporting the infinite mindset in health care and community leaders. Susan Magsamen in her seminal book, Your Brain on Art, goes into detail describing the impact of aesthetic experiences on the brain. By understanding and leveraging how beauty, design, and sensory experiences influence emotions, cognition, and behavior, leaders can foster environments and mindsets that align with the long-term purpose driven focus of an infinite mindset. Here’s how neuroaesthetics can be of value in that effort.

First, aesthetic experiences directly influence the brain’s emotional centers, reducing stress and fostering positivity. This leads to enhanced emotional well-being for those experiencing such actions. For example, designing systems with soothing colors, natural light, and art can have a significant impact on creating a culture of calm and purpose. This clearly addresses the structure element so important in a healing ecosystem.

Secondly, aesthetic experiences activate areas of the brain associated with creativity and imagination. This impact supports leaders in thinking expansively, which is critical for an infinite mindset. This encourages engagement in reflective practices, enabling them to connect with the Just Cause as described by Simon Sinek. For example, incorporating art or design thinking workshops into leadership retreats can enhance creative approaches to systemic challenges. This supports the leadership component of the healing ecosystem.

Third, aesthetic experiences, especially those involving story telling or art, activate neural pathways which are linked to empathy and social bonding. In healthcare, where relationships are critical to a healing ecosystem, neuroaesthetics can help leaders cultivate greater empathy for both patients and staff. Displaying patient art or personal stories in common areas can remind leaders and staff of the human element of healthcare, reinforcing their commitment to compassionate care. All of this contributes to the climate aspect of the healing ecosystem, as well as focusing on the importance of individuals.

There are even more areas where an understanding of neuroaesthetics can influence our work on the infinite mindset needed for a healing ecosystem approach. But an understanding of neuroaesthetics provides health care leaders with tools that facilitate environments and experiences supporting the core elements of an infinite mindset. By incorporating beauty and design into leadership approaches, leaders can inspire long term commitment and foster innovation so important to thriving in the workplace.