Ted Spiker Authors Article on the Physical Benefits of Being Creative

Ted Spiker, University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications Journalism professor and department chair, is the author of “Eight Creativity Tips for a Stronger, Happier Brain” published on WebMD on Nov. 2.

The story focuses on the science and health benefits of creativity and explores the brain-related mechanisms for various kinds of creativity (the arts, problem solving, idea generation, etc.).

“We all use creativity to some degree as part of our daily rhythm of living, thinking, and doing,” Spiker wrote. “In fact, it’s a mistake to pigeonhole ‘creativity’ as only fitting the capital-C creative endeavors, because creativity can be learned, developed, and nurtured – and regularly flexing your creative muscles benefits your brain and overall health.”

He adds, “The best part: Creativity is limitless. It can be LOUD and BOLD and PUBLIC, but it can also be a whisper, a soft approach to playing with your brain – without an end point, without a product, without a standing ovation or 10,000 likes.”

Spiker, who specializes in health writing, is teaching a fall 2023 semester journalism/media course called “Professional Creativity.”

Posted: November 6, 2023
Category: College News
Tagged as: Creativity, Health Writing, Idea Generation, Journalism, Michael Connelly, Problem Solving, Professional Creativity, Ted Spiker, WebMD