Being creative is fun, but did you know that it’s also good for both your mental and physical health?
Creativity stimulates brain activity, reduces stress, and even boosts your immune system. Not bad for an hour of fun!
Here’s how creativity is good for your health.
Creativity can help process emotions and trauma. It’s no coincidence that creativity is often used as a therapeutic tool. But even in daily life, creativity can help you process stimuli and manage your emotions. Every creation is a little story in itself, telling you through color, imagery, and design what’s going on inside and what you need. Additionally, engaging in creative activities can help you enter a flow state, strengthening your connection with your heart. This fosters greater self-confidence and a stronger intuition, making you more resilient in life.
When you’re being creative and enter the flow state, your brain releases dopamine. This “feel-good” chemical is produced when we are rewarded by doing something that gives us satisfaction. Dopamine has a calming effect on both your body and mind. It helps release tension and lowers stress levels. So, whether you’re painting, making music, doing DIY projects, or even coloring in a coloring book, being creative helps you relax and restore balance.
Research has shown that daily self-expression, such as journaling or drawing, boosts the immune system. Experts aren’t exactly sure how this works, but creativity increases the number of CD4+ lymphocytes, which are key to a strong immune system. This means you’re less likely to get sick.
Creativity, particularly when it involves motor skills, enhances brain functionality. The left hemisphere of the brain is responsible for motor functions, while the right hemisphere focuses on composition, form, and technique. When both hemispheres communicate, the brain forms connections between them. This improves concentration and memory.
So, creativity is healthy! The benefits for both body and mind are greatest when you create for the sake of enjoyment. When you’re fully immersed in the moment, the flow state occurs, releasing dopamine and lowering your stress levels. So, allow yourself to let go of results and expectations during the creative process and embrace whatever wants to emerge with an open heart. Your body will thank you immediately!
