Where has my Creativity Gone? by Jay Lang

                                                     

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 Where has my Creativity Gone?

Lately, I’ve noticed that the weather here in BC can dramatically affect my creativity. In Vancouver, a rainforest, the standing joke among the locals year-round is, “We don’t tan, we rust.” But not much is ever said about the toll the constant winter weather can take—the dark clouds and endless precipitation can suck the energy out of you both physically and emotionally, which definitely affects your mood and creativity. So, I looked up some ways to combat the winter blahs, and here is what I found. I don’t think I’ll try all of these suggestions but there are a few that I will consider for sure! Here they are:

1.      Get outside, even on cloudy days: Even if it’s just for a short walk, the fresh air and natural light, even on overcast days, can help boost your mood and energy. Exposure to natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and improves sleep, which in turn supports creativity.

2.      Bring the outdoors in: Add plants, fresh flowers, or nature-inspired décor to your space. Studies show that being around greenery can reduce stress and increase creativity.

3.      Change up your environment: Sometimes a simple change in scenery can help reset your mind. If you’re feeling creatively stuck, try working from a new location—whether that’s a different room in your house, a café, or a co-working space.

4.      Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps release endorphins, combatting the winter blues. Whether it’s yoga, running, or just a quick home workout, staying active keeps your energy up and your mind sharp.

5.      Practice mindfulness: Meditation, breathing exercises, or simply taking a few quiet moments for yourself can help you reconnect with your inner calm. A clearer mind is often a more creative one.

6.      Embrace the cozy vibe: Winter can be an excellent time to lean into relaxation. Indulge in cozy, comforting activities like reading a book, making tea, or binge-watching a feel-good show. Sometimes, giving your brain a break can lead to fresh ideas when you’re ready to work again.

7.      Stay social: Isolation can intensify the winter blues. Reach out to friends, join a local class, or even just spend time with family. Social interaction helps boost mood and keeps your creative spark alive.

8.      Make time for hobbies: Whether it’s painting, knitting, journaling, or any other creative outlet, spending time on something just for fun can reignite your inspiration and help you tap into new ideas.

9.      Prioritize sleep: Winter’s shorter days can make us feel tired more often. Getting enough quality sleep helps restore both body and mind, which is crucial for creative thinking.

10. Set small goals: Winter can feel like it drags on, so breaking tasks into smaller, manageable goals can give you a sense of progress and accomplishment. Celebrate even the smallest victories to keep yourself motivated.