Enjoying the arts may be as vital as exercise in slowing the ageing process, new research suggests.

Academics behind the study propose that arts and cultural engagement should be "recognised as a health-promoting behaviour in a similar way to exercise".

Researchers found a variety of activities beneficial, including reading, listening to music, or visiting a gallery or museum.

This is likely because each activity offers distinct physical, cognitive, emotional, or social stimulation.

Previous work has shown arts engagement can lower stress, reduce inflammation, and improve heart disease risk.…