Art, medicine and health have many points of contact and a long tradition. Even in Greek mythology, Apollo was the god of the arts. Artistic approaches to therapy (including visual and performing arts, music, dance and literature) have been used for many centuries and are still offered in some medical institutions today. Despite this long practical experience, there is little scientific evidence of its effectiveness. Basic research provides an important basis for art therapy with interesting new approaches for investigating possible mechanisms of action. In addition, the overall social signifi- cance of art for health is an important topic, especially with regard to preventive effects for the population. The book provides a comprehensive overview of how art can be used as a health-promoting resource and highlights various research approaches. In addition, a brief review of the historical development of art in medicine is given. For the first time, the influence of music, painting, dance, literature and architecture on people’s state of health and the healing effect they can have is shown. Target group: Art therapists, artists, psychotherapists, child and adolescent psychologists, psychoanalysts and psychologists, health professionals, music and dance therapists, art and music educators, community musicians