Slow Down Aging by Doing This
Wanted: Creative thinker. Is that you? It may not be part of your job description, but if you sharpen this skill, your health may thank you.
Why? Because the higher people scored on a creativity scale, the younger their health status.
The Live-Younger Connection
Seems creative work could be one of the best things for your health. In a study, people were asked to rate their health and answer questions about their work. The more problem solving and creativity they honed on the job, the better their health status. For example, those in the 60th percentile on the creativity scale were deemed 6.7 years younger than their peers in the 40th percentile. Why? It's possible that creative work may decrease depression, enhance a mood-boosting sense of personal control, and improve cognitive function -- all things you need if you want to live to be 100. Got a lot of downtime at work? Find out why daydreaming is an important part of your mental health, too.
Find an Outlet
If your work is on the dull side, find an activity that taps into your imagination and allows you to express yourself, like learning to draw, playing music, or writing stories. Or write and memorize poetry. Here's a trick for remembering every line.
Check out these eight foods that can bring out your creative self.
Creative work and health. Mirowsky, J., Ross, C. E., Journal of Health and Social Behavior 2007 Dec;48(4):385-403.
