For many years, yogis have talked of the benefits of yoga for creativity. Now, scientists and yoga teachers are beginning to study how and why yoga benefits and enhances creativity.
Yoga enhances the awareness of the body and mind. The mind, body, spirit connection of yoga helps to clear the mind. This helps ideas and inspiration rise to the surface when the mind is cleared and centered.
Yoga also increases focus, which can benefit the expression of creativity. When you begin a creative endeavor, there are many things in life that can get in the way. The many responsibilities in life and a long list of things to do can leave you feeling exhausted and unfocused. Yoga practice helps enhance focus and create.
Yoga relieves stress and anxiety, which can inhibit creativity. Over the past decade, many studies have shown a definitive link between stress reduction and the regular practice of yoga. When you are relaxed and free of stress, the mind is better able to focus on creative endeavors.
The quieting of the mind, breathing and relaxation poses of yoga at the end of the practice is a gold mine for creative inspiration. Yoga combined with meditation helps the student learn to quiet the mind and tap the creative well inside. The best inspiration comes from a calm mind that is free of constant thought and stress.
These effects of yoga are one reason so many people choose to practice yoga in the morning. Clearing the mind and enhancing focus increases the likelihood that you will finish the necessary tasks and stay focused on creative endeavors. You will feel relaxed and centered throughout the day, rather than stressed, and this is very beneficial for creative pursuits.
To really gain the creativity enhancing benefits of yoga, regular practice is required. Set aside some time each day to start your day with a yoga practice, or practice in the middle of the day or evening, if that better fits your schedule. Even short practices of fifteen to thirty minutes help enhance creativity.