Finding the balance: How to be a Healthier Creative

Creativity is addictive. And exhausting. And, much of the time, overwhelming, leading to stress and physical discomfort. Anyone who loves to make – be it writing, painting, crafting, sewing – will understand that long hours spent at a desk isn't always the healthiest for us. It’s crucial that we focus on both our mental and physical health. Here are some practical tips to help us all thrive as healthier creatives.

Create a Comfortable Workspace

Your creating environment, regardless of what you create, is key to your productivity and well-being. A comfortable workspace can enhance your focus and significantly reduce physical strain.

Invest in a quality ergonomic chair and desk. For example, a chair that supports your lower back properly can improve posture and reduce back pain, which affects 80% of adults at some point in their lives – yes, that includes non-creatives too! Even better if your desk should be adjustable, allowing your elbows to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle. Although I don't have one, standing desks are a very popular option.

Take Regular Breaks

I know for a fact that I am very guilt for getting lost in my writing, but regular breaks are essential for both physical and mental recharge. Studies suggest that taking breaks every hour can improve focus and productivity. So... set a timer to remind yourself to step away from your desk for five to ten minutes every hour. Use this time for brief stretching, walking, or a quick workout.

Fuel Your Creative Engine

What you consume affects your body and your mind. Shocker. Proper hydration is vital for maintaining focus and energy. We want to aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to reduce fatigue and improve our focus. When it's time for a snack, try to skip the sugary options. It's hard, I know... Instead, reach for fruits like bananas, or some yoghurt. These foods provide sustained energy and help maintain stable blood sugar levels, unlike sweets that lead to sudden crashes. According to the World Health Organisation, a healthier diet can improve overall mood by 12%.

Incorporate Movement into Your Day

Long periods of sitting can lead to serious health issues. To combat this, incorporate movement into your daily routine. Aim to take 30 minute breaks and, if possible, avoid staring at your computer screen for prolonged durations of time. How about this – consider taking a brisk walk during breaks or doing light stretching. For those who enjoy a challenge, yoga or Pilates can offer significant benefits.

Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

I find that writing is especially mentally demanding, most likely due to the balance between creating and keeping an eye on my technical toolkit, so taking care of your mental health is just as important as physical health. Mindfulness practices can reduce stress and enhance creativity. Dedicate a few minutes each day to mindfulness or meditation, focusing on your breath or using guided apps like Headspace or Calm. Research shows that even 10 minutes of meditation can improve focus and overall mood.

Set Realistic Goals

Many creatives set high expectations, leading to burnout. This, sadly, is all too common. To avoid this, focus on creating realistic, achievable goals. Consider breaking larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks, and celebrate milestones as you complete them. This approach provides a sense of accomplishment – and will help to make you feel less guilty about 'not' doing something by the end of the working day.

Connect with Other Writers

Creativity can be isolating, especially writing, but connecting with fellow writers can provide valuable support and insight. Join a local writing group or online communities where you can share your work, receive feedback, and engage in discussions. I've recently been attending a 'Writer's Hour' for an hour each week on a Tuesday afternoon, and although a group of us write in silence (we talk before and after of course – talking isn't entirely banned!), it's reassuring to work beside people who are in a similar position to yourself. And, most importantly, it boosts productivity, and makes you feel less alone. So I recommend you find something similar!

Sleep

Never underestimate the importance of sleep. Quality sleep is vital for cognitive function, creativity, and overall health. Aim for seven to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to optimise your performance. Create a calming bedtime routine that avoids screens. Instead, consider reading a book or practicing relaxation techniques.

Embrace Flexibility

In the unpredictable world of creating, flexibility is your ally. Understand that some days will be more productive than others, and that’s okay. Allow yourself to adjust your writing schedule based on your energy and inspiration. Being adaptable can reduce stress and make writing a more enjoyable experience.

A side note – I really despise the whole 'You need to write 2000 number of words every day of life to be a better writer'. Nobody has verified this and those who do have extreme routines likes these are just as successful than those who are flexible and embrace the unpredictable nature of life.

Closing Thoughts

Finding balance as a creative, writing especially, is essential for your health and creativity. By creating a comfortable workspace, taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and incorporating movement into your day, you enhance your writing experience. Moreover, practicing mindfulness, setting realistic goals, connecting with other writers, prioritising sleep, and being flexible can lead to a more enjoyable and productive writing journey.

Remember to take care of yourself throughout the writing process, and you'll likely see your creativity flourish.

Thanks for reading!