Parents of young children have undoubtedly read or learned about the benefits of giving children time to engage in creative pursuits. Such activities can help foster cognitive development in youngsters, but the benefits of being creative don’t end in adolescence. In fact, adults also have much to gain from being creative as well.
A 2021 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health noted a positive relationship between creativity and subjective well-being in adults. Such findings are a feather in the cap of creative pursuits, and enough to compel some adults to wonder which hobbies they can pursue in an effort to ignite their creative fire. Creativity can be defined in a number of ways, particularly with respect to recreational pursuits, but various activities might be just what adults need to reap the rewards of being more creative.
Painting: Many adults who paint characterize this recreational activity as a great way to unwind and ease stress. Painting requires creativity, and even avid painters may not recognize that painting is a mental exercise that encourages problem-solving. That can have a profound impact on mental health, as a 2015 study in the journal Neurology found that adults who engaged in creative pursuits like painting were 73 percent less likely to develop cognitive issues that can lead to dementia.
Writing: Writing is another creative pursuit that can make for a great hobby. Writing in a journal, even if it’s a recap of the day’s events and not writing fiction, can clear up mental clutter, which in turn can open a pathway to more creative thinking. Adults also can utilize a journal to do some creative writing.
Knitting: Knitting is another hobby that allows adults to indulge their creative side. Adults must design patterns, choose colors and even create items wholly from scratch when knitting, which makes this a great way to be more creative with personal time.
Playing an instrument: Learning to play a musical instrument affords adults an opportunity to express themselves. Playing a musical instrument also has been linked to a range of cognitive benefits, including sharpened decision-making, improved memory and focus and enhanced mental flexibility.
