Another Good Reason to Follow the Creative Urge – The Body/Mind Benefits of Creativity
In a recent article in Psychology Today, Cathy Malchiody, PhD, states that there is now sufficient scientific evidence to prove that creativity is a well-being practice. It seems the health benefits of creativity are becoming more known to the public.
Studies conducted over the last couple decades demonstrate that a having a creative practice, such as dance, music, writing, or visual arts, shows definitive health benefits. The majority of case studies done indicate that an art practice can improve emotional stability and increase positive emotions, while reducing stress and symptoms of depression, and even improve the function of the immune system.
The article goes on to state about the health benefits of creativity:
As of 2015, additional studies indicate that creative self-expression and exposure to the arts have wide-ranging effects on not only cognitive and psychosocial health, but also physical conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, various forms of dementia and cancer.
Additionally, a recent study done about the health benefits of creativity by the Mayo Clinic showed that doing one of various kinds of arts and crafts activities can significantly delay cognitive decline during old age. The study suggested that engaging the mind in a creative activity can protect our brain’s neurons and stimulate the growth of new neurons. (American Academy of Neurology, 2015).
Creativity and Longevity
When I look at these studies I am reminded of my grandmother, who lived to the ripe old age of 99. Her creative craft was quilt-making, as well as gardening, until very late in life. Right up until her moment of passing she was mentally sharp as a tack and had a (mostly) sunny outlook on life. Looking back, I suspect there are other factors that kept her sane, healthy, and energetic, such as having family, being active in the community, and eating healthy, fresh foods.
Having been a health coach in the past, and now as a creativity workshops instructor and art coach, I often find my students and clients reporting that their creative practices make them feel better in multiple ways, including physically and mentally. If you, like myself, have experienced for yourself the health benefits of creativity – of having some kind of daily creative practice – it is relatively easy to see the correlation: It feels good to follow the creative impulse. How we feel and what we think directly affects our state of health.
In short, the better we feel emotionally, the better we will feel physically.
What Can I do Creatively for my Health?
Maybe you are drawn to this idea, but don’t yet have a regular art practice, or have no idea what you could possibly do that is creative. Some of us have been told over the years that we’re simply ‘not the creative type’ or that we’re simply not artistically gifted.
To those of you who have the creative impulse and yet feel mired in this mystery, I would say this – you are not alone. The amount of creative suppression that remains in our societies is nothing short of astounding.
There are many reasons for this, but the important thing is to ignore any suggestions that you are not capable of creative self expression, regardless of how old you are or what your circumstances are. If you do your best to remove yourself from those who have drilled this falsehood into your head, it will be that much easier to find a suitable creative practice that is easy and fun – and health-giving – to do.
If you find yourself stuck and need a creative boost or simply need some creative inspiration, creativity workshops might be for you. I have found immeasurable benefits from certain kinds of creativity workshops over the years, as well as having benefitted by being around others who live by their creative impulses. There are many avenues to finding your specific creative contribution, and you’ll find yours with a little effort and simply believing that you can do it.
One more essential element to note: following your creative impulse IS authentic self expression, and does not by any means imply some kind of ‘paint-by-numbers’ activity.
As Malchiody aptly states:
“…it does not fully manifest from completing an adult coloring book sheet. It’s our capacity to actually “create” is where we begin to live more fully, experience transformation, and recover the core of what it means to heal. It is your authentic expression through art making, music, song, movement, writing, and other forms of arts-based imagination that are central to the equation of why creativity is a wellness practice.”
Engaging in creative activities offers a multitude of benefits that extend beyond personal satisfaction and joy. From enhancing mental health to fostering social connections, the advantages of creativity are both profound and far-reaching.
12 Benefits of Creativity
1. Boosting Mental Health
Engaging in creative activities has been shown to enhance mental health by increasing positive emotions and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The act of creating allows individuals to express themselves, process complex feelings, and find relief from stress. This therapeutic effect contributes to overall well-being and emotional resilience. The **health benefits of creativity** are particularly significant when it comes to reducing emotional distress and promoting happiness.
2. Enhancing Cognitive Function
Creativity stimulates the brain, encouraging the development of new neural connections and enhancing cognitive abilities. Engaging in creative tasks challenges the mind, promotes problem-solving skills, and can even delay cognitive decline as we age. This mental engagement keeps the brain active and sharp, making **creativity benefits** an essential aspect of lifelong learning and mental agility.
3. Strengthening the Immune System
Participating in creative activities has been linked to improved immune system function. The positive emotions and stress reduction associated with creativity can lead to physiological changes that bolster the body’s natural defenses, contributing to better overall health.
4. Fostering Social Connections
Creativity often involves collaboration and sharing, which can strengthen social bonds and create a sense of community. Whether it’s joining a writing group, participating in a dance class, or collaborating on a music project, these interactions enhance social well-being and provide support networks. One of the many **benefits of creativity** is its ability to bring people together and foster meaningful relationships.
5. Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills
Engaging in creative processes encourages individuals to think outside the box and approach problems from different angles. This flexibility in thinking enhances problem-solving skills, making it easier to navigate challenges in various aspects of life. The **creativity benefits** of innovative thinking can apply to personal projects, professional endeavors, and everyday decision-making.
6. Providing a Sense of Purpose
Pursuing creative endeavors can instill a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Setting creative goals and achieving them provides a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and motivation. The **health benefits of creativity** extend beyond the mind and into personal satisfaction and well-being.
7. Encouraging Mindfulness
Creative activities often require focus and present-moment awareness, similar to mindfulness practices. This immersion in the creative process can lead to reduced stress and increased feelings of calm and clarity. Among the **12 benefits of creativity**, the ability to cultivate mindfulness is one of the most rewarding.
8. Promoting Emotional Expression
Creativity provides a safe outlet for expressing emotions that might be difficult to articulate otherwise. This expression can lead to emotional release and healing, contributing to mental health.
9. Building Resilience
Engaging in creative activities can help build resilience by encouraging adaptability and persistence. The challenges encountered during the creative process teach individuals to cope with setbacks and continue striving toward their goals. This is one of the key **benefits of creativity**, as it helps people navigate life’s ups and downs with confidence.
10. Enhancing Quality of Life
Incorporating creativity into daily life adds richness and depth to experiences. It brings joy, reduces boredom, and can make everyday routines more enjoyable. The **health benefits of creativity** contribute to overall life satisfaction and happiness.
11. Supporting Physical Health
Certain creative activities, such as dance or theater, involve physical movement, which can improve physical health by promoting exercise, coordination, and overall fitness. Whether through active engagement or relaxation, **creativity benefits** both the body and mind.
12. Encouraging Lifelong Learning
Pursuing new creative skills fosters a mindset of lifelong learning and curiosity. This continuous learning keeps the mind engaged and can lead to personal growth and development.
Creativity: A Path to a Healthier and Happier Life
Incorporating creativity into your life doesn’t require grand artistic talents. Simple activities like journaling, cooking, gardening, or doodling can provide these benefits. The key is to find what brings you joy and make it a regular part of your routine.
The 12 benefits of creativity highlight its profound impact on overall well-being. From improving mental and physical health to fostering social connections and resilience, engaging in creative activities is one of the best ways to cultivate a fulfilling life.
Remember, the act of creating is a powerful tool for enhancing well-being. Embrace your creative impulses and experience the myriad health benefits of creativity that can enrich your life in meaningful ways.
If you are interested in starting, or restarting, your creative practice, and would like to explore more of the health benefits of creativity, check out some of the courses and creativity workshops we offer.
