I have noticed that the most inspiring words and ideas show up as I near the end of my long trek. Could it be due to the increased levels of oxygen hitting my brain, I’ve wondered? Certainly, all that exercise seems to be sending my blood cells marching more than they usually do.
It turns out I’m far from alone in finding that I’m most creative when I’m walking. Studies have compared the creativity levels of people while sitting versus while walking, either outside or on a treadmill. In one series of three experiments, 81%, 88%, and 100% of participants demonstrated higher levels of creativity when walking as compared to when sitting (Oppezzo and Schwartz).
And this boost in inventiveness does apparently stem in part from the heightened action in one’s veins and arteries, I’ve also learned. Walking may hike blood flow by about 25%, feeding the brain more of its favourite fuel – oxygen and glucose (Montago).
Of course, after the walk, I do need to sit down before a computer screen and transcribe my thoughts. The best time for doing that, I’ve learned, is early morning, when there’s no risk of interruption from anyone for at least a good hour. The absolute stillness of the house in that time allows me to focus in ways that I find difficult throughout most of the rest of my busy day.
For me, my creativity tends to calcify in front of a computer screen. However, give me some fresh air, a long road flanked by open fields, and bird-song, and, while I will never be a C.S. Lewis or John Milton, I certainly enjoy many more adventures of the imagination than if I’d stayed home on my couch.
Michelle Joy Teigrob is an author, college instructor, mom of three, and wife of one. She grew up as a missionary kid in Belize, Central America, the youngest of 10 children. In addition to her twin’s death, she has since lived through the loss of two other sisters. Michelle's new book, Joyfully Star-Mapping through Life's Dung Piles, shares about her journey through her wrenching sadness. Visit www.michellejoybooks.ca to learn more.
References
Montago, Margaretha. (February 22, 2025). Does Walking Make You More Creative (and Better at Problem-Solving)? DOI: https://margarethamontagu.com/does-walking-make-you-more-creative/#:~:text=Turns%20out%2C%20walking%20can%20kickstart,if%20you're%20just%20sitting%20around
I found myself nodding along as I read your post this morning, Michelle. Walking inspires much of my writing, as well. All those brain synapses fire better during movement. However, I tend to forget things unless I note them down immediately. Thanks for your lovely words.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lorrie. I like how you put that - "all those brain synapses fire better during movement!" Blessings.
Deletevery interesting perspective!
ReplyDeleteThanks Tracy. I realize that this isn't necessarily the experience of every person! Blessings.
DeleteA wonderful way of writing and creating. I can relate as I will gain insight and ideas when out and about and I need to start making notes as they often melt like snow if I don’t. Kudos to you for keeping track and thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing, Sharon. I do find it a challenge sometimes to keep track of what I've mentally created until I'm able to sit down and transcribe!
DeleteI was walking in the park this morning wondering how to translate the thrilling song of spring birds into words. Chirping was definitely not the fullness of description I was looking for! Your method works for me! Thanks for sharing 💕
ReplyDeleteOh, I can so understand the challenge of trying to find the right words to describe something, Linda! I know walking isn't always the answer, but if it can help at times, that's wonderful!
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