Did you know that exercise could boost your creativity? Numerous studies have shown that regular physical activity can enhance creativity in individuals.
A study conducted by the University of Graz in Austria involved 79 adults aged 18 to 33 years, and it found a positive correlation between exercise and creativity. Participants who were physically active demonstrated more inventiveness compared to those with a more sedentary lifestyle.
Research from universities in Germany and the Netherlands also revealed that people who regularly exercise tend to perform better on creativity tests than those who are less active. This improvement was observed in both divergent thinking (thinking of multiple solutions to one problem) and convergent thinking (focused solution to one problem).
Several other researchers and neuroscientists have also stated that there is some evidence that suggests exercise could enhance creativity. Physical activity can cause changes in the brain that can lead to improvements in memory and imagination. Exercise stimulates the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), which promotes the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus part of the brain. Moreover, exercise enhances the survival of these new brain cells, making them live longer. Additionally, exercise increases the size of the hippocampus and improves memory, the same region of the brain that is used for imagining the future and for being creative. To think about the future, creativity is essential as it involves thinking of new solutions, identifying new problems, and anticipating what’s to come.
While the evidence is not entirely conclusive, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that regular exercise can improve creativity. Regular exercise does seem to offer the most benefits, but even occasional exercise could give your creativity a boost. So, if you’re in need of a creativity boost, it’s worth giving exercise a try.