The Very Real Effects of Doing the Work

Years ago, I met a brilliant professor of biochemistry and neuro-physiology. He excitedly told me that he had observed positive changes in the brain related to doing the Artist's Way and Artist's Way at Work. (At the time, he thought it particularly related to morning pages.)

I was pleased to hear his opinion, but he was so excited about his discovery that at first I thought he might have spent a little too much time in his lab. Yet, it was true that I had noticed a certain emotional lightness and physical robustness sneak up on my students as the weeks went by. I did not consider that the change in their appearance or their lightness of heart could actually be proven bio-chemically. I thought psychological, sociological, but never considered the biology involved. Which is why some of the evidence you are receiving with this newsletter surprised me. Consider:

* Increased immune system function.
* Significant reductions in stress.
* Improvements in grades for college students.
* Reduced absenteeism from work.
* Faster re-employment after being laid off.
* Less emergency room visits.

These changes were consistent across gender, ethnicity, native language, educational level, age, country of residence or anxiety level. From New Zealand to France, Mexico City to Belgium, the results are still positive.

Yes, I can hear you saying, you already know this. And everyone knows my (our) books provide an effective form of short-term, self-regulated therapy. It has always been so -- Whether a reader's focus is on creativity and innovation (The Artist's Way or The Artist's Way at Work) family relationships (Prodigal Father and Codes of Love) or financial management (Money Drunk/Money Sober), the key is therapeutic reflection.

I will not discuss the spiritual component here. I believe there is one. But I will leave that to each reader's personal worldview. For now, I want to focus on the science, to share some empirical validation about the process you have trusted with your time and energy.

So, enjoy this research article from Jamie Pennebaker, a professor of psychology at the University of Texas. Next time, I will venture a theory as to why and how it all works. Ask me about-- cooking, the 24-hour feedback loop, and the emotional Rosetta stone. In the meantime, thanks for the faith, and all that hard work.

All the best,
Mark Bryan

P.S. Remember to Play.