Movement for the brain: scientists have found out why walking helps creativity
It's not uncommon for ideas to come up during a walk, jog, or other physical activity, and it may not be just a matter of habit. Research shows a link between movement and the brain's ability to find non-standard solutions. About why physical activity can help creative thinking — in the material of Izvestia.
Movement is associated with more flexible thinking
According to a publication in the journal Scientific American, research in recent years has pointed to a link between physical activity and creativity. In a meta—analysis of the journal Sports Medicine - Open, which combined 115 studies, scientists found a link between movement and creative thinking.
In another paper published in the American Psychologist, higher physical activity, measured by the number of steps, was also associated with more pronounced creative results.
At the same time, scientists have not yet claimed that movement directly causes an increase in creative abilities. Studies show a stable relationship, but the mechanisms of this effect are still being studied.
A walk can free the brain from unnecessary stress
One hypothesis is that everyday multitasking overloads the brain's workspace. When a person goes out for a walk and switches from constantly solving problems, some of this load may decrease.
David Strayer, Professor of Cognitive and Neuroscience at the University of Utah
We believe that daily multitasking overloads our mental space. Time spent moving outdoors can free up the space needed for new ideas to emerge.
However, this is still an explanation that requires further verification. Researchers have not identified the only mechanism responsible for linking movement with creativity.
Emotional state can also make a difference.
Another possible reason is related to mood. Physical activity can affect the emotional state, and mood, in turn, is associated with creative thinking.
Christian Rominger, researcher at the University of Graz
We know that creativity is related to mood, but we can't say for sure that it's the same thing. It is also possible that physical activity improves brain function and, consequently, creativity. But for now, these are just theories.
Nature and physical activity can enhance the effect.
In a study published in the Journal of Cognitive Psychology, scientists tested how movement in nature affects creative thinking. Participants were assessed before and after hiking and multi-day walks. After physical activity, the researchers found a marked improvement in creativity scores.
Similar observations are found in everyday life. Writer Amanda McCracken said that running or swimming makes it easier for her to overcome a creative impasse and formulate new ideas. At the same time, it is not yet possible to determine which role movement directly plays in the results, and which is due to being in nature, a change of scenery, or other related factors.
Scientists have not yet determined the optimal amount of activity.
The researchers have not identified a specific duration or intensity of movement that is guaranteed to enhance creativity. Therefore, it is impossible to talk about the existence of a universal "dose" of physical activity for the emergence of new ideas.
According to Strayer, the cognitive benefits of physical activity can begin after about three 30- to 60-minute sessions per week. However, this assessment refers to overall cognitive benefits rather than guaranteed increased creativity.
Thus, walking may be one way to create conditions for freer thinking, but the exact relationship between movement and creativity still needs to be explored.
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