Boost Your Creativity with Simple Exercise, Experts Say
Mentally Blocked? Take a Walk
Experts have long espoused the benefits of exercise for physical fitness, but did you know that it can also boost your creativity? According to a new review conducted by Dr. Chong Chen of Yamaguchi University, even a short burst of aerobic exercise can ignite creative thinking.
Chen’s review, which focused on the impact of physical activity on the creative process, found that movement, rather than fitness, is the key factor. Many studies have shown that activities such as walking, running, and even dancing have positive post-exercise effects on creativity, clearing the cobwebs and stimulating the brain for fresh ideas.
Why Does Exercise Enhance Creativity?
While the exact mechanism behind the creativity-enhancing effects of exercise is still being explored, researchers believe that it’s not the activity itself, but rather the act of movement and engaging with the environment that makes a difference. Running in nature, for example, may have different effects from running on a treadmill at the gym.
These findings suggest that even short active breaks during the day can rejuvenate creativity and problem-solving. Exercise can have long-lasting effects on brain function and cognition, enhancing working memory, attentional control, and information-processing.
Moving Your Way to Creativity
Dr. Christian Rominger of the University of Graz states, “All of us have both the potential and the need to be creative.” Whether you’re a writer, artist, or simply looking for fresh ideas, getting up and moving can be a game-changer. And you don’t have to commit to a rigorous fitness routine – just a few minutes of low-intensity physical activity, such as walking, can enhance creative thinking.
Performing aerobic activity regularly can trigger structural changes in the brain, such as increased brain volume in the hippocampus. This can benefit various aspects of cognition, improve working memory, attentional control, and information-processing, and ultimately enhance creativity.
So the next time you find yourself mentally blocked or needing a creative boost, consider taking a short walk or engaging in other low-intensity physical activity. You never know – a burst of fresh air and movement may be just what you need to unlock your creativity.
And remember, creativity isn’t just for artists and writers. It plays a role in various aspects of our lives, from problem-solving at work to finding innovative solutions at home. Unlock your creative potential by getting up and moving – your brain will thank you!
