AROUND THE COMMUNITY Creativity is good for the soul

ANNE-MARIE ELIAS

I don’t have a creative bone in my body, I hear you say. But, many pursuits fit the definition of creativity. You don’t need to be Rodin, Michelangelo or Van Gogh.

How about being passionate about technology, cooking, gardening, sewing or dancing? Are you good at crosswords or sudoku? There is creativity involved in all those pursuits.

Psychological research confirms that being creative can increase positive emotions, lessen depressive symptoms, reduce stress, decrease anxiety and, even, improve the functioning of one’s immune system. Spending time on creative activities is associated with a higher “activated positive affect”.

“Positive affect” is the extent to which people experience positive moods, reflecting happiness and optimism. Higher positive affect lowers stress and expands perspective, opening us up to more possibilities.

Being creative boosts brain function. When we are creative, we use parts of the brain that are not activated in undertaking routine, everyday tasks. The analytical left hemisphere focuses on motor functions, the right is the creative.

We know that social connection is vital for well-being. Creative activities undertaken in groups provide the opportunity to interact with others. It also helps boost self-esteem and confidence. There is a sense of satisfaction and achievement. You might have noticed that adult colouring-in books are “a