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By kilax, January 16, 2010 6:15 am

Have you ever felt like exercise helps you be more creative? Do you finish a run or a good strength workout with a million ideas in your head?

Well, I sure do! I sometimes think I should run with a recorder so I can talk out my thoughts and ideas. And I actually take a notepad with me when cycling so I can write things down!

My scribbly notes taken while running!

The Jan/Feb issue of Health had an article on the topic – “How Exercise Makes You More Creative.”* The article explains why this happens:

When you work out, your body flushes out cortisol, the hormone that helps trigger the “fight or flight” response when you’re stressed, and which also shuts down brain functions for creativity and problem-solving, explains Pierce J. Howard, PhD, managing director of research and development at the Center for Applied Cognitive Studies in Charlotte, North Carolina, and author of The Owner’s Manual for The Brain: Everyday Applications from Mind-Brain Research.

Meanwhile, your pituitary gland releases endorphins, which can produce the feel-good “runner’s high.” Exercise also promotes the growth of new nerve cells and synapses through elevating levels of neurotrophins (a chemical that fosters the growth of new nerve endings) and by increasing oxygen in the blood, which helps provide mental energy.

Pretty cool, right? Not only are we away from distractions when we work out, but our body is releasing endorphins to encourage good feelings and flushing out the cortisol that makes us feel stressed.

The article gives five tips to jump start your creativity:

Pick a low-concentration exercise that allows your mind to wander, such as brisk walking, swimming laps, hiking, or running. Sports, such as golf or tennis, or team activities, like soccer or basketball require too much strategizing or in-the-moment focus.

Exercise for a decent duration—at least 30 minutes.

Unless you and a partner plan to brainstorm on a shared project, exercise alone.

Bring a notepad or tape recorder so you can jot down brilliant ideas.

Get to work right after you return, while your creative juices are flowing. The shower can wait!

I can’t wait to see what creative ideas you come up with!

*Damn. I love it when magazines put their articles online so I can share them with you!