Creativity, contrary to being something we’re all born with, doesn’t exactly come naturally. Rather, it’s something which needs nurturing, harnessing and looking after. And even if it does emerge, that rich vein of form can often end up in a rut if not given the love and attention it deserves. The good news is that there are ways and means, tips and tricks, to keep the creative juices flowing and the mindset productive. No more writer’s block, no more fluffed lines, no more blank pages, with these; our 5 IDEAL ways to reignite your creativity.
BLANK SPACE, FULL PAGE
There is often a temptation to constantly stimulate your brain in an attempt to coax out moments of genius. But constantly rarely leads to creatively. Indeed, giving your mind space to breathe, to iron out the kinks and wipe the mind’s hard drive clean, is sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself in times of creative strain. Something as simple as going for a walk with no purpose but the linear goal of getting from A to B can free up the space in your mind required for thinking. Better yet, try your hand at meditating or yoga; two fantastic ways to give your brain a workout. Or, simply stare enigmatically into the middle distance and hope for the best. The choice is yours.
GET OUTDOORS
Being outdoors and at one with nature can give your creativity the boost it needs. Vitamin D, fresh air, a stretch of the legs…what could be better? Indeed, a study in 2012 found that hikers were 50% better at creative problem-solving after they had spent four days out in the woods, away from technology and the pressures of the modern world. Go figure. Of course, you don’t necessarily have to commit days to a hike or camp under the stars wearing nothing but a vine leaf to reconnect with your creativity. Just an hour in the park, a stroll on the beach or trip to your local farm could be the inspirational input you need.
SWEET MUSIC
If you’re after balance and zen (great contributors to the state of creative flow, those), then consider this; musicians’ brains activate both the left and right side functions of their brains simultaneously and symmetrically when listening to or playing music. The left side is when we’re focusing on our verbal and organizational skills, the right for imaginative output. So, to get fully behind your creativity, hit play on that favourite song, pronto!
EMBRACE PLAY
Sure, it’s accepted that children need play to grow, develop and find their voice in this world. That’s a given. But it’s also true that adults need their downtime, to unwind, untangle and interact with others in an informal setting. Rather than sitting and waiting for creative flow to come, change your focus and stimulate your playful side. Banish the guilt and get stuck into that new FIFA edition you’ve been too busy for, dive down a youtube wormhole of cat clips or get your dancing shoes on and have a groove.
KEEP A JOURNAL
Sure, when writer’s block strikes you may not feel much like more writing. However, taking a different approach to the pen, in a more freeform, frivolous style could be the respite you require. So, get yourself a notebook and just write whatever is going through your mind. Let your thoughts flow and let go. It’s a very effective way to break through to your more introspective, creative self. It doesn’t really matter what you write, it’s the act of putting your thoughts on paper that is really beneficial. And who could say? Something Shakespearean or Stormyzian may as if by magic appear on the page.
