Creative health at work – ‘What’s that all about?!’
There is ample evidence, see Creativity for Healthier Lives and Creative Health Review, that creativity plays a key role in maintaining good health. From the prevention of diabetes to the treatment of mental health conditions, the benefits are far reaching.
But really? We don’t all have an interest in or access to art galleries and theatre, and as for the workplace, where would we event start.
Let’s start by defining what is meant by creative health which, for lots of us, including the WaW team, can often be the sticking point. Especially translating it to something tangible to be implemented at work.
So, what do we mean by creativity? Simply put, it’s making stuff! Creative health goes a little further and encourages us to engage and interact with the making, makers and what is already made all in the name of good health. For example, you may not play an instrument, but you can still enjoy music. And yes, that is us encouraging you to implement dancing into your working day!
Ps. Bad dancing makes us laugh, and laughing is also good for health so carry on 😊. (see last months blog).
Our current creative health offer at Wellbeing at Work centres around journaling. A simple and effective way to transfer ideas, thoughts, imagination and emotions onto paper. With the guidance and expertise of Julia Roberts, of Culture Shift in Lewes, we are running workshops to demonstrate how journaling can contribute to positive workplace culture.
The very first of our creative journaling workshops was held in January and feedback we received was extremely positive. Julia facilitated the session and was amazed at the openness and generosity of those in attendance. The atmosphere was relaxed and supportive, so much so, several of those in attendance have subsequently arranged to explore their interests in personal time!
In the workshop we explored materials and techniques such as collage, scribbling, drawing, and poetry. I have started using drawings in my daily note taking as a way to process and retain new information, with great success I may add!
Maybe these activities seem terrifying to the self-confessed ‘uncreatives’ among us. But as an employer you can grant permission and provide the time and resources to enable different ways of working. If you’re not yet convinced, here is a list of reasons why creativity is good for business:
- Problem solving
- Imagination and innovation
- Positive culture and morale
- Team bonding
- Self-expression
- Reduced stress
Evaluation forms completed at the creative journaling session showed a significant increase in the understanding of how creativity can be used at work. So don’t just take our word for it, join us at our next Creative Journaling workshop and find out more about how you can incorporate creativity into your business to better the health of your employees.
Creativity is for everyone, and we all find it in different forms! 🕺