Does creativity hold the key to unlocking good mental health?
I chatted to the creative business Recess Living founder, Nina, on the latest podcast episode. You can listen to it here. We spoke about the importance that being creative can play in improving your mental health, and it's something I wanted to explore a little more in this article. So here we go.
Many people wouldn't necessarily classify themselves as creative for fear of feeling they have to show up as the next Picasso or Banksy. According to a survey, only 30% of the American population identify themselves as creative.
But Nina describes the feeling when people finally succumb to their creative side beautifully here:
"With marbling especially, there's only so much control you can have over the process - the moment it hits the marbling bath - it's down to your intuition and then the inks and the water. Explaining to people that what we're doing doesn't have an agenda is interesting. There's such a broad spectrum of people in the workshops - from coaches to doctors. And when they're given the freedom just to let things 'happen,' the transformation is wonderful. it's about enjoying the process for what it is."
Taking time to step away from the hustle and bustle by doing something like this to let your brain rest is a positive step, proven most recently in recent Microsoft research, which also encourages people to take breaks between meetings. That is probably a whole other article!
When people are in 'creating mode,' whether in a formal workshop, doodling on a piece of paper at work, or painting a mural, they tend to get lost in the activity—focusing on the task rather than getting caught up in anxious thoughts and feelings. However, if you're able to get into a 'flow state' - when you're completely absorbed in something, your brain will become flooded with dopamine - the feel-good hormone. And that is 100% a good thing!
Even though being creative can definitely help to unlock good mental health, it’s not the only thing you could do to flood your brain with the feel-good hormone (think meditation, weightlifting, running, learning a new skill!) It is however, a very good place to start.
Top tips to be creative:
Creativity doesn't mean you have to become a painter! Do some doodling, dancing, singing, and anything that you enjoy.
Don't overthink it. There doesn't need to be an objective - other than just letting it happen.
Get outside. Just being in nature can give your brain a breather and inspire you!
Try a workshop to make it easier - everything is done for you, and you can immerse yourself in the session. Find out more about Recess Living’s current workshops.
If you’re interested in hearing about the anti-hustle club events starting in Summer 2022, sign up here.
