It has just been revealed that neuroscientists discovered that there is a brainless activity that can lower your stress and boost productivity. Check out the latest interesting details below.
Activity to lower stress is revealed
We truly understand that the business world can be quite demanding, and it’s important to cultivate creativity in order to come up with fresh ideas and solutions. Have you ever considered incorporating art-making into your team’s activities?
Surprisingly, research has shown that engaging in activities such as drawing, coloring, and doodling can have a positive impact on both creativity and mental well-being.
Scientists at Drexel University even used fNIRS technology to measure blood flow related to rewards in the brain during such activities and found that they can activate the reward pathways that enhance our creativity and well-being. It’s fascinating to think about how promoting art-making can be a way to boost both mental and professional growth!
The study involved three art activities – coloring in a mandala, doodling within or around a circle marked on a paper, and having a free-drawing session, each for three minutes, with rest periods in between.
During all three activities, there was an increase in blood flow in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. This region forms a part of the wiring for our brain’s reward circuit.
The study’s lead author pointed out that this increase shows that there might be inherent pleasure in doing art activities independent of the end results.
The benefits of creating art extend beyond just the pleasure of the activity itself.
According to surveys conducted before and after the art-making activities, participants who engaged in art-making felt more creative and were better able to solve problems.
These findings have significant implications and highlight the inherent benefits of art in promoting creativity, focus, productivity, and well-being. However, among drawing, coloring, and doodling, the latter seems to be the most effective.
When you are facing a challenging project or problem at work and feel stuck, the solution may be to start doodling.
Doodling is a simple and accessible activity that can help you tap into your creative side and generate new ideas. While doodling, your mind is free to wander, and you can explore different thoughts and possibilities.
The act of doodling also has a calming effect, which can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it an excellent tool for improving your overall well-being and making you more productive.
According to research, doodling can evoke positive emotions and should be considered a therapeutic tool for everyone, regardless of their skill level. After all, we are talking about doodling, a judgment-free activity.
