Exercise and Writers
The benefits of exercise for writers
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The Benefits of Exercise for Writers
In the often sedentary world of writing, where the only heavy lifting is done by the imagination, the importance of physical exercise might be easily overlooked. However, the connection between exercise and creativity is profound, especially for writers. Beyond the obvious health benefits, regular physical activity can significantly enhance a writer's cognitive abilities, boost creativity, and provide the necessary mental clarity to overcome the challenges of the creative process.
Improved Cognitive Function
Exercise has a direct impact on cognitive function, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Writers often find themselves grappling with complex plotlines, intricate character arcs, and nuanced themes. Engaging in regular physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new neurons and improving overall brain function. This enhanced cognitive capacity can translate into sharper focus and improved problem-solving abilities, making it easier for writers to navigate the intricate landscapes of their stories.
Enhanced Mood and Stress Reduction
The writing process can be emotionally taxing, with writers frequently facing the highs of creative breakthroughs and the lows of self-doubt and writer's block. Exercise has been proven to release endorphins, the body's natural mood elevators, reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. A more positive mental state not only makes the writing journey more enjoyable but also allows for clearer thinking and a more optimistic approach to creative challenges.
Unleashing Creativity
Exercise has a remarkable ability to unleash the creative mind. Whether it's a brisk walk, a jog, or a yoga session, physical activity stimulates the brain and encourages divergent thinking. Ideas may flow more freely, and writers may discover new perspectives or solutions to plot dilemmas while engaging in physical movement. The rhythmic nature of exercise can also create a meditative space, providing a fertile ground for creative inspiration.
Breaking Through Writer's Block
Writer's block is an affliction that plagues even the most seasoned wordsmiths. Staring at a blank page or grappling with a stubborn paragraph can be mentally draining. Exercise serves as a powerful antidote to writer's block by breaking the monotony and offering a change of scenery. A short workout session can reenergize the mind, allowing writers to return to their work with a fresh perspective and renewed vigor.
Increased Energy Levels
The demands of the writing process, with long hours spent in front of a computer or notebook, can lead to mental fatigue and decreased energy levels. Regular exercise, however, has been shown to increase overall energy levels and combat feelings of lethargy. This boost in energy can be invaluable for writers facing tight deadlines or those working on ambitious projects, providing the stamina needed to meet creative goals.
For writers, incorporating regular exercise into their routine is not just about staying physically healthy; it's a strategic investment in their creative prowess. By embracing the benefits of exercise, writers can break through creative barriers, overcome writer's block, and embark on a writing journey that is both physically and mentally rewarding. So, lace up those running shoes or roll out that yoga mat – your next literary masterpiece might just be a workout away.
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My ideas are not ever meant as a substitute for consulting with a qualified health professional.
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JOY E. HELD is an author, educator, editor, entrepreneur, and literary citizen responsible for this site and its contents. She is the author of
Writer Wellness: A Writer’s Path to Health and Creativity (Headline Books, Inc., 2020)
Writer Wellness Workbook: A Guided Workbook and Journal to Accompany Writer Wellness: A Writer’s Path to Health and Creativity (Headline Books, Inc., 2023)
The Mermaid Riot (Melange, 2024) Young Adult Historical Fantasy
She writes spicy historical fiction under a pen name.
She is the winner of multiple writing and book awards:
West Virginia Writers, Inc. Annual Writing Contest, Honorable Mention, Novel, 1998.
New York Book Festival, Honorable Mention, Writer Wellness, 2020.
Next Generation Indie Book Awards, Finalist, Writer Wellness, 2021.
Northeast Ohio Romance Writers of America, Member of the Year, 2020.
Northeast Ohio Romance Writers of America, First Book Award, 2020.
She is an adjunct faculty member in the Southern New Hampshire University Online MFA Creative Writing.
She is a proud graduate of Seton Hill University in Greensburg, PA with an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction.
She is a member of The Authors Guild and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
Joy is the founder and CEO of My WRITEDAY Subscription Box for writers and readers.