I have three t-shirt quilts that Mom made for me. The squares stitched together are reminders of my younger, fitter, more athletic self. Volleyball teams, intramural sports, and a bunch of road races. Back then, exercise, especially running, was just a part of life. I would go for a run or go to the gym so that I could be fit enough to go for another run or go back to the gym. (And so my legs looked good in running shorts. Whoa. What has happened to those legs!?) Today, I still make exercise part of my life but it’s different exercise and I do it for a whole other set of reasons. I’m not collecting t-shirt trophies anymore. I choose to exercise because my brain needs it. So much. So does yours.
Exercise, the mind, and creativity
Exercise is a trigger word for a lot of people. That’s a shame but I understand it. Jane Fonda. Richard Simmons. Tae Bo. Zumba. Nike. They’re not for everyone. But there’s no denying the importance of the E-word. There are mountains of scientific evidence about the benefits it provides, including a growing body of research that supports the idea that staying active can significantly impact your brain health—and therefore your mood, your stress reactions, and your creative output. I’m certain the exercise routine I do each morning is what keeps me from committing fire-able offenses at work. Regular exercise makes me happier, better able to manage stress, a less smart-mouthed problem solver, and a better creative.
Here's a summary of what some of the evidence I mentioned tells us, with a focus on the connection between exercise and creativity. I asked my friend, ChatGPT, for a little help with this part.
Enhanced Cognitive Function
Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills. This means that your brain is better equipped to handle complex creative tasks. A study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that regular physical activity can boost your cognitive abilities, making it easier for creative ideas to flow.
Stress Reduction and Anxiety Management
Creativity often thrives in a relaxed, stress-free environment. Exercise is an excellent stress reducer, as it triggers the release of endorphins, often referred to as 'feel-good' hormones. (See last week’s post about “happiness chemicals.”) This not only eases anxiety but can help you approach your creative projects with a clearer, more open mind.
Inspiration Through Movement
Physical activities like walking, running, or yoga can be incredibly meditative. These moments of movement can allow your mind to wander freely, fostering a conducive environment for creative thoughts and ideas to emerge. Your best ideas might come to you during a serene walk in nature or a calming yoga session.
Breaks the Creative Blocks
If you've ever faced a creative block, you know how frustrating it can be. Exercise can serve as a powerful tool for breaking through creative barriers. It can divert your focus from the problem at hand, and when you return to your work, you often see it with fresh eyes.
A Routine for Discipline
Establishing a regular exercise routine can also help instill discipline and structure in your life, which can positively impact your creative habits. As discussed in the book "The Power of Habit" by Charles Duhigg (paid link - great book!), routines and habits can make you more efficient and consistent in your creative pursuits.
Make movement a personal daily habit
It’s simple. If you want a healthy body and brain, you need to exercise. But let’s reframe. Think about crafting a sustainable movement habit not for the sake of exercise itself (and not for the t-shirt), but as a critical component of your well-lived creative life. Here are my recommendations.
Move a little bit every hour. Use your smartwatch or another reminder to get out of your chair, step away from the screens, and just move or stretch a bit.
Plan for variety. Find at least three movement activities that you can do without dread. You won’t stick with anything you don’t enjoy, nor should you. (But don’t give up too soon on something just because it’s uncomfortable.)
Walk like a creative. If you’re able, walking should be on your list of movement activities. Some of the most notable creatives in history cite walking as a regular habit.
Set a goal. Aim to string together enough movement to total at least 30 minutes every day. If you can do 30 minutes continuously, even better.
Be safe. Know your limits. Wear the right gear for your chosen activities. Work with your doctor if you have health problems.
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