Freedom from Constraints: How to Boost Creativity

We are probably all aware of the fact that creativity can come in a number of different forms. Not only this, but there are all types of things and methods that lead to inspiration and the feeling of improved creativity. In many cases, people just simply wake up and the morning and have a sense of whether or not the new day will bring a sense of creative excitement. Other days, it might feel that there is nothing left in the proverbial creativity gas tank.

There is some interesting new research regarding creativity. A number of new studies have come out regarding the ways in which creativity can be enhanced. These studies reveal a number of interesting factors which should be given more consideration. The theme of this new data is darkness and freedom from constraints. Of course, there are also specific nutritional supplements that may improve or enhance natural levels of creativity.

Lighting and Creativity:

These studies did indeed show that lighting is one of the most significant factors in terms of influencing creativity. Bright lights tend to actually make people tired and are somewhat distracting. Obviously, this has huge implications for workplace settings. Interestingly, this also explains the fact why many bars and restaurants like to use dim lighting. Not that they are trying to enhance creativity, of course, but simply as a way of making people feel more comfortable and at home.

Lighting can actually create specific moods in people. There is evidence to show that different colored and different intensity lights can lead to effects ranging from a relaxing mood to one of anger and irritation. This certainly is in line with these recent findings.

Darkness and Freedom from Constraints:

While it may be a bit surprising to some, the studies actually showed that darkness was much more conducive to creativity than light. A good possible explanation for this might be that the dark induces a state or feeling of being freed from constraints and limitations. Even simply dimming the lights can lead to improved creativity.

The most interesting aspects of this study for me were the implications of this upon workplace productivity and effectiveness. One idea is to simply turn down the lights; even just a little bit can help. Another interesting idea would be to have a so-called ‘dark room’ (and not for photography) where employees could go for creativity sessions. These could even be scheduled times.

Supplements for Creativity:

Rather than relying entirely on darkened rooms for improving creativity this state can be helped by the creative (pun intended) use of nutritional supplements. For example, there are some Nootropics which can be effective, like Choline (CDP Choline, Alpha GPC, Centrophenoxine) and Piracetam. Others like L-Theanine and Green Tea (extract) can also be helpful.