Despite my efforts to become a morning person, I’ve always found late afternoon and evening workouts more appealing. After wrapping up work, I enjoy shaking off the stiffness from sitting at my desk with some movement, followed by a refreshing shower, dinner, and settling in for the night. Since transitioning to remote work, I’ve noticed a shift in my routine. After my evening workout shower, my mind is buzzing with new ideas, sudden bursts of inspiration, and an overwhelming urge to jot down my thoughts. This rush of creativity has become a staple in my daily life, rejuvenating my brain after a long workday. And I’m not the only one who experiences their best ideas or breakthroughs in the shower post-workout—there’s scientific evidence to support this phenomenon.
Creativity is not just an innate trait but rather a skill or mindset crucial for problem-solving and innovation. Understanding the creative process involves gathering information, allowing time for incubation or mind-wandering, and refining ideas. It’s during this incubation phase that exercise and shower time play a pivotal role. Working out has numerous cognitive benefits, including enhancing creativity by putting us in a brain state conducive to insightful moments. Whether it’s a brisk walk, dance session, or intense workout, physical activity can improve divergent thinking and idea generation. Additionally, mind-wandering during exercise can lead to those ‘aha!’ creative moments.
Showering after a workout further amplifies these creative benefits. The meditative nature of showering provides a unique space for free-flowing thoughts, allowing the imagination network to roam without constraints. Water’s calming effect combined with the lingering post-workout mood boost creates an environment conducive to creativity. This combination of factors clears the mind of distractions, paving the way for meaningful thoughts, feelings, and actions to converge.
To maximize this creative moment, experts suggest going with the flow and not overthinking. Embrace the process of letting ideas come naturally and allowing your mind to wander freely. Remember Ray Bradbury’s famous quote, “Thinking is the enemy,” and trust in the creative flow inspired by your post-workout shower.
