Sober Synthesis

“The key to creativity is being in tune with ourselves to really know how we feel in the face of knowing others may feel differently”.

-Rick Rubin

What is Creativity?

• Creativity is the ability to generate ideas or products that are novel and useful. It spans a wide spectrum from a painter mixing colors in a new way, to a cook creating a new taste sensation, to a child inventing a game from scraps.

What are the Neurobiological Benefits of Creative Activities?

• Creative activities increase brain connectivity (neuroplasticity).
  • In particular, greater creative thinking has been linked to the flexible interaction between the Default Mode Network (DMN) and the Central Executive Network (CEN), also referred to as the Executive Control Network (ECN).
    • Addiction disrupts DMN functioning and connectivity leading to increased negative rumination. 

• Creative activities, especially during “aha” moments, release dopamine to enhance well-being and motivation.
  • High dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex enhance cognitive flexibility to support the ability to switch between concepts, perspectives, or tasks. 
• In summary, creative activities enhance cognitive functioning and decision-making, emotional regulation and resilience, and physical health.

How Can I Get Started or Enhance My Creativity?

• Allowing yourself downtime, without constant digital stimulation, can enhance DMN functioning. 
  • Regular breaks encourage creative problem-solving and innovative thinking.
    • Changing a mindset from “boredom” to intentional “creativity time”.
  • These practices support a healthy Default Mode Network (DMN) by balancing external task demands with internal reflection.
• Engage in outdoor activities like nature walks.
  • Spending time outdoors can increase creativity by up to 50%
• Listen to lyric free music and ambient sounds (e.g. ocean waves).
• Mindfulness practices 

What are Examples of Creative Activities?

• Drawing, painting, sculpting, crafting (e.g. ceramics, jewelry, woodworking)
• Singing, playing a musical instrument, creating music playlists
• Dancing
• Writing
• Gardening
• Photography
• Cooking
• Sewing, knitting, crocheting

Possible questions for thought/sharing:

1. How have creative activities supported your recovery/wellness?
2. What emotion(s) surface when you are creating? Have those emotions changed in recovery?
3. What are your challenges to starting and/or maintaining a creative activity?

Disclaimer

This summary is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed.