Exploring the Power of Movement: Overcoming Winter Writer's Block

As a fiction writer, you're likely no stranger to the struggles of writer's block, creative droughts, and the constant need to conjure up new ideas. Mix in the holidays and colder weather where we indulge more and move less...and for some of us, our energy plummets. Hello writer's block!

While many writers turn to techniques like free-writing, brainstorming, or even meditation to spark their creativity, there's another often-overlooked factor that can have a profound impact on your writing: movement.

The Science Behind Creativity

Research has long established a link between physical activity and cognitive function. Exercise has been shown to improve memory, boost mood, and enhance problem-solving skills – all essential components of the creative process.

When we move our bodies, we stimulate blood flow to the brain, releasing endorphins and other neurotransmitters that promote mental clarity and focus. Movement has also been linked to increased gray matter in areas of the brain responsible for creativity, such as the anterior cingulate cortex...or rather: the default mode network. This means that regular exercise can actually shape and refine the neural pathways associated with creative thinking and help you beat writer's block.

Outside of setting aside time to exercise, set a timer, stand up and move every hour. Short bursts like power walk outside, up the stairs a couple times, short mat pilates session (my favorite!).

Movement can have a profound impact on your creative output as a fiction writer and not to mention your health. By stimulating blood flow to the brain, improving cognitive function, and accessing the subconscious mind, physical activity can be an added tool to help you overcome writer's block, generate new ideas, and tap into your full creative potential.

More Tips

Hydration

Make sure to put aside the soothing hot beverages we all crave in the winter and drink your water! Filter it and remineralize it for even more benefits.

Read

Take off the writer's hat and pick up a book to get lost in, giving your brain a chance to relax!

3 Tips to Better Sleep

Hint...better sleep is a 24 hour work in progress, not an hour before bed!

1. Master the Art of Dimming Your Day

I know, I know. The winter already feels rather...dark...but since the winter means more time indoors—time to block the artificial light. Before the sun rises or after it sets, keep the lights low and wear those trusty orange blue blockers. This simple trick can make a world of difference in your sleep-wake cycle. By reducing the amount of artificial light that enters your eyes, you're giving your body a chance to produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep-wake rhythm. So, go ahead and dim those lights, and let your body do its magic.

Did you know? Blue light blockers reduce eye strain: Working with a computer or smart phone all day can cause eye strain, because of the unfiltered blue light they emit . Using blue light blockers will reduce eye fatigue and the things that come along with it , like headaches and blurred vision.

2. Harness the Power of Natural Light

And speaking of light, utulize the sun...the shorter amount of time it's out! Get outside and soak up those rays! Expose your eyes and skin to as much natural daylight as possible, especially in the morning. A morning walk during the peak UV-A hours (somewhere between 9 and 10 am, depending on your location. Use the D-Miner app to know exactly when!) is especially potent. This will help regulate your circadian rhythms and give you a natural energy boost, balance hormones and gut mobility.

3. Fuel Your Body, Fuel Your Day

Eat your meals within a 6-8 hour window earlier in the day, and try to keep your diet seasonal. This might seem like a strange request, but trust me, it's a game-changer. By eating in sync with the natural world, you're giving your body the nutrients it needs to thrive. And by keeping your meals seasonal, you're supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint. It's a win-win! Don't know what's in season? Check this site to learn more.