There are four symbol systems that our Human Family, from my experience, uses to mediate and relate with the worlds we live in.
1) All dimensions of the physical world we live in can be defined and related to, by the symbol system of Mathematics.
2) In our interaction and relationship with the Human World, we use the symbol systems of spoken and unspoken language.
3)The Arts, in their highest expression, mediate our experience and relationship with the unknown or spiritual worlds. Sacred Ceremonies, combine the power of the Arts, and literally create a unified field of healing and transformation.
4) Dreams are the Symbol System that mediates our relationship with our own inner self.
With this understanding, it easy to see why "music, theater, and dance" boost compassion and writing scores among young people.