Creative habits increase dopamine levels in the body; a feel-good chemical released in the brain that impacts mood.
According to Forbes, creativity can build healthy habits such as commitment and time management and can have a positive impact on physical health. It can also lower the risk of dementia and boost the immune system.
“[Creativity] is a great outlet and is a way to relax while still feeling productive and practicing both technical and creative skills,” said junior Ace Velte. “It’s something that I’m able to do without any outside expectations or feeling like it needs to be a certain way or reach a certain standard to enjoy it.”
Creative habits also prove useful around the holidays. Crochet, art and sewing are popular forms of creative gift-giving.
“I make crochet gifts for the holidays for friends and family,” said sophomore Emilia Fiorentino. “It makes me very happy to share my creativity with other people.”
Music is another form of creativity. Even though musicians are given sheet music to play, they have to find a way for the music to come alive and entertain the audience.
“I like to use music as an outlet. [Musicians] have to find a creative way to translate the emotions of a piece by pouring their own feelings into it so that it affects the audience,” said orchestra director Angela Henry. “I think a lot of students in my classes feel the same and that’s why they sign up for music classes year after year.”
If art and music don’t appeal, try a language arts-related hobby instead. The Writer’s Nook Club is open to anyone who wants to grow their skills as a writer.
“I think it is important to have a creative outlet,” said Writer’s Nook Club sponsor Hollyanne Chesnut. “Having something that allows you to create is essential to human existence because it allows you to contribute something beautiful to the world.”
Ocean Lakes has many clubs and classes that can help anyone develop creative skills. Get involved with music and art classes, theater, journalism, library makerspaces, dance teams, robotics club and much more.
“I wanted to start up the Art Club at Ocean Lakes because I know many students want a place where they can create art and be creative together in a safe environment with like-minded students,” said junior Kalgi Mehta, art club president.
