Cultivating Creativity

With pandemic fatigue on the rise, feelings of burnout, stress, and anxiety are increasingly common. Not only does this impact productivity, but it also affects a person’s mental and physical health. Creativity helps fight pandemic fatigue by providing an outlet to reduce stress and cultivate new ideas.

Being creative looks different for everyone. While some may be naturally gifted in specific art forms, every person can express creativity. Creative activities such as playing the guitar, knitting, and drawing can help reduce stress and realign the body and mind. Expressing creativity can also be simple everyday tasks, such as cooking a meal or tending to a garden.

Studies have shown that creativity is linked to various physical and mental health benefits, including improvements to the immune system and cognitive brain function. For instance, if you journal daily, you boost your immune system without realizing it. Writing on a regular basis increases CD4+ lymphocyte count, which is a vital part of the immune system. Moreover, playing an instrument creates stronger connectivity between the left and right sides of the brain, leading to improved overall cognitive function.

When expressing creativity, the brain is flooded with dopamine. This chemical is a natural antidepressant that increases happiness and reduces stress. Therefore, having creative outlets helps reduce anxiety and depression. Creative activities equip individuals to process emotions and focus their minds, calming the brain and body.

Carving out time to be creative can seem like an impossible task in the midst of busy life. However, making minor changes to your day to express creativity can impact your physical and mental health. For additional resources on expressing your creativity and improving your health, click here.