The best motivation for biohacking our minds is creating an extraordinary life
Spending time outside — a.k.a. nature therapy — will immediately biohack your brain by improving your mood and cultivating creative thinking. Breathe in the fresh air you need with a daily walk.
We all want to be more creative. Whether it’s problem-solving at work or taking on a new project at home, creativity is an essential skill. Unfortunately, our creativity is suffering as we spend more time on phones with technology and less time outdoors.
At its core, creativity is the ability to come up with new ideas, concepts, or solutions to problems.1 It fosters resilience, brings us joy, and offers us opportunities for self-actualization — the recognition and utilization of our talents. For some people, it’s a skill that comes naturally. We see this in artists, musicians, and problem solvers. For others, this skill has to be discovered and learned. Fortunately, there are various ways to cultivate creativity, and one unexpectedly effective method is to spend time in nature.
Our brains process creativity in the same regions that we process imagination and memory.2 This is important because part of being creative involves our ability to imagine the future while taking into account things that have happened in the past.3 Spending time in green spaces, such as parks or forests, can improve cognitive function and enhance creativity by reducing stress and increasing feelings of relaxation and happiness.3
One study demonstrated that a single 50-minute walk boosted participants’ mood, memory, and attention, while also reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.4 These improvements can all effectively stimulate our creativity.
The visual and sensory experiences of being in nature can stimulate brain activity in the prefrontal cortex —the region right behind our foreheads — that’s responsible for creative thinking and problem-solving. In a 2012 study, researchers found that spending a prolonged amount of time in nature had significant benefits with respect to creativity and creative reasoning.5
Prioritizing time in green spaces is a simple way to boost your brain and your creativity — so get outside and find a tree- you’ll be grateful you did!
“If nature contact were a medication, we would be prescribing it to everybody.”
This shoe collection fits your foot’s anatomy with zero drop, thin flexible soles, and a wide toe box for free movement, natural grip, and an optimal ground feel. Made of select natural materials allowing you to synchronize with the earth’s electric charge. Reconnect with the earth for optimal health.
Earthing products are like barefoot substitutes, enabling you to receive the outside energy of the earth inside your home or office. They aim to restore the body’s natural ground state by syncing you to the natural rhythms of the earth. Overall safe, authentic products that help you stay grounded indoors.
The Earth and Moon grounding mat is designed for safe and easy grounding at home. It’s made of soft, durable leatherette, an eco-conscious synthetic polyurethane that’s highly conductive and extremely comfortable. It’s also non-toxic, vegan, and designed perfectly to fit any space.
Record your iNaturalist observations, share with fellow naturalists, discuss your findings, and contribute to science. Keep track of your encounters with other organisms and maintain life lists in the cloud. Connect with experts who can help you identify the organisms and build your knowledge.
Discover scenic hike trails, camping sites, and amazing offroad routes with Gaia GPS. Enjoy easy-to-read maps to backpack and explore nature conveniently. Make the great outdoors your backyard with Gaia GPS – the best backcountry navigator for hiking, camping, and exploring the wilderness.
Cairn is a safety app that helps you stay safe while exploring the outdoors. With Cairn, you can share your progress and location with friends and family, so they know where you are at all times. The app also provides real-time location tracking and alerts your safety circle if you’re overdue.
1. Creativity. (2021). Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/creativity
2. Beaty, R. E. (2020,). The Creative Brain. Cerebrum. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7075500/
3. Berman, M. G., Jonides, J., & Kaplan, S. (2008). The Cognitive Benefits of Interacting With Nature. Psychological Science, 19(12), 1207–1212. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2008.02225.x
4. Bratman, G. N., Daily, G. C., Levy, B., & Gross, J. J. (2015). The benefits of nature experience: Improved affect and cognition. Landscape and Urban Planning, 138, 41–50. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2015.02.005
5. Atchley, R. A., Strayer, D. L., & Atchley, P. (2012). Creativity in the Wild: Improving Creative Reasoning through Immersion in Natural Settings. PLOS ONE, 7(12), e51474. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0051474
6. Abookire, S. (2020). Can forest therapy enhance health and well-being? Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/can-forest-therapy-enhance-health-and-well-being-2020052919948
7. Beil, K. (2021). Nature Therapy: Part One: Evidence for the Healing Power of Contact with Nature. Journal of Restorative Medicine, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.14200/jrm.2021.0101
8. Field, B. (2022). How Nature Therapy Helps Your Mental Health. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/how-nature-therapy-helps-your-mental-health-5210448
Enhance your brain’s creativity by making it a priority through daily practices. Research shows that biohacks like mindfulness routines, brainstorming, and moving your body facilitate fresh ideas and novel solutions.
We often associate creativity with artists and musicians, but it also consists of the ability to come up with new ideas and find solutions to problems that we encounter. By definition, creativity is the ability to create new ideas or solutions. It is a valuable trait that can have a positive impact on many areas of life, including personal development, career advancement, and effective problem-solving.
Many think that creativity is something we are born with. Either we have it or we don’t. However, research shows this isn’t true. Creativity is in all of us and can be developed and strengthened through intentional practices and skill-building.
Cognitive stimulation training has demonstrated benefits in originality and fluency of divergent thinking.1 Divergent thinking involves generating multiple unique ideas or solutions to a problem you are trying to solve. The study also found that functional changes occurred in brain regions within the prefrontal cortex (the frontal part of our brains), suggesting that creativity may rely on a wider range of cognitive brain functions.
Many creative processes are linked to the frontal cortex of the brain.2 Areas like the hippocampus, basal ganglia, and white matter have functions that support creativity.
One practice that can boost creativity is mindfulness, which involves being fully present in the current moment; observing sensations, emotions, and thoughts. Research has found that mindfulness can enhance divergent thinking, which is a key component of creativity.3
Another practice that has been shown to boost creativity is brainstorming, which involves generating a large number of ideas in a short period of time. One study reviewed 42 studies looking at the benefits of three different types of brainstorming. Results suggest that all styles of brainstorming can stimulate creativity. 4
Physical activity is another way to boost creativity. In a report that examined four different studies on physical activity, researchers found that walking boosts creative imagination both immediately and shortly after the fact.5 Moreover, walking outdoors was found to have a more pronounced impact on generating creative ideas than walking indoors.
These are just a few examples of strategies that you can incorporate into your life to enhance your creativity, regardless of your goals. Consider trying one of these methods and observe how it affects your creative output!
“Life is nothing more than a stream of experiences — the more widely and deeply you swim in it, the richer your life will be.”
The Peloton App offers thousands of classes across multiple disciplines including strength, cardio, meditation, yoga, stretching, cycling, running, walking, rowing, and outdoor workouts. You can easily use your phone, TV, tablet, or another electronic device to work out anytime, anywhere!
Discover Tai Chi’s ancient art at home. Tai Chi is low impact exercise that improves balance, reduces stress and anxiety, increases flexibility and mobility, and boosts energy levels and fitness. Mark Stevenson shares his decades of knowledge in Tai Chi. Available on your phone or laptop.
Start a unique mobility and recovery experience with Paths — video workouts designed for specific body areas and states of being. Detailed videos of every movement are included in their routines. Pliability facilitates better movement and performance through short and guided daily videos.
Yousician makes learning to play an instrument fun and easy. With interactive tutorials and lesson plans created by real music teachers, you can learn at your own pace and stay motivated with progress tracking. Yousician’s technology listens to you play and provides instant feedback.
Adobe Fresco is an illustration app that provides a completely natural painting and drawing experience. It is built for the latest stylus and touch devices. With Adobe Fresco, you can work with water colors and oils that blossom and blend at your touch— with a large selection of brushes.
HGTV Handmade is a YouTube channel that features crafting and DIY projects from creators across the country. The channel offers a variety of projects that can help you brighten your space and learn clever hacks. You can also tour inspiring homes of creative influencers.
1. Sun, J., Chen, Q., Zhang, Q., Li, Y., Li, H., Qiu, J., Yang, W., & Qiu, J. (2016). Training your brain to be more creative: brain functional and structural changes induced by divergent thinking training. Human Brain Mapping, 37(10), 3375–3387. https://doi.org/10.1002/hbm.23246
2. Cavdarbasha, D., & Kurczek, J. (2017). Connecting the Dots: Your Brain and Creativity. Frontiers for Young Minds. https://doi.org/10.3389/frym.2017.00019
3. Colzato, L.S., Hommel, B., Öztürk, A. (2012). Meditate to Create: The Impact of Focused-Attention and Open-Monitoring Training on Convergent and Divergent Thinking. Frontiers in Psychology, 3. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2012.00116
4. Al-Samarraie, H., & Hurmuzan, S. (2018). A review of brainstorming techniques in higher education. Thinking Skills and Creativity, 27, 78–91. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tsc.2017.12.002
5. Wac, K., & Schwartz, D. K. (2014). Give your ideas some legs: The positive effect of walking on creative thinking. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory and Cognition, 40(4), 1142–1152. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0036577
When combined with a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and proper rest and hydration, creativity supplements can enhance brain function on a cellular level — giving biohackers exactly the head start they need on productivity.
Creativity is a fascinating and multifaceted skill that has captured the attention of scholars, artists, scientists, and thinkers throughout history. It is defined as the ability to generate new ideas, thoughts, and solutions to problems. Creativity is a fundamental aspect of human nature and plays a crucial role in our personal and professional lives. Whether you’re looking to improve your problem-solving skills at work or start a home project, being able to think creatively can be the key to success. While there are many tips and tricks to boost our creativity, nootropics, and supplements can be very helpful.
In the biohacking community, “nootropics” is a term we use for supplements. They work by increasing mental functions such as memory, creativity, motivation, and attention.1 Some are natural while others are man-made. Research on the effectiveness of these supplements is ongoing, but they are generally considered safe and effective. Some are even specifically designed to improve creative thinking.
Creativity involves a complex series of different brain functions. Memory is an important component as creativity is the combination of new and pre-existing ideas.2 Being able to manage our emotions is equally important as creative thinking may be impaired by depression or anxiety. Nootropics work by regulating the brain at a cell level.3 They can adjust brain activity by sending signals between cells and releasing neurotransmitters and increasing the production of certain proteins that enhance cognitive function. Modafinil is a popular nootropic used as a cognitive enhancer. Studies have shown that it boosts creative abilities and the enjoyment associated with tasks in healthy people.4 It does this by increasing dopamine levels, which are linked to creative thinking.
Scientific research has shown that consuming coffee in the morning can also stimulate the creative process. Despite coffee having some negative attention, the energizing properties found in caffeine can help enhance your ability to problem solve.5 Research suggests that even just one serving of caffeine can have significant effects on cognitive function and mood, suggesting that caffeine in moderation may have the best effects.6
“It turns out Mother Nature, apparently, wants us to be higher performers because she makes a couple of really potent smart drugs.”
The Thesis Starter Kit helps you identify blends that work best with your unique brain chemistry. Each week, sample a recommended blend and record your response. Note any increased productivity and enhanced focus. After the first month, you’ll have a good idea of which blends work most effectively for you.
Black Magic Supply Brain Waves™ is a premium, handcrafted nootropic product designed to provide extreme focus for daily tasks without a crash. Brain Waves™ nootropic matrix is formulated to maximize focus and energy levels, enhancing productivity. It contains Lion’s Mane mushroom, Cats Claw, and AlphaSize®.
Find faster focus, increased concentration, and rapid recall with Feedamind. This science-backed formula combines all-natural ingredients to provide your mind with the fuel it needs to excel. Perform at your peak, get laser focus, sharpen your memory, improve hand-eye coordination, and energize your brain.
GENIUS CONSCIOUSNESS is a drink that combines all-natural ingredients to enhance brain function. It contains Alpha Size®, SerinAid®, NeuroFactor®, Dynamine®, and Lions Mane, which are scientifically researched. These ingredients help support key brain functions such as memory, concentration, and recall.
Full Spectrum CBD Gummies are designed to help you balance daily stress. These all-natural gummies are made with real fruit extracts and packed with high-quality hemp. Whether you enjoy them as a morning ritual, post-workout recovery, or night-time sleep solution, these gummies can help calm your mind.
CBD Gummies are a delicious and relaxing way to consume CBD. They come in two varieties: gummy worms and gummy bears. The gummy worms are made with the purest CBD isolate and coated with a tangy blend of sweet and sour sugar. Each container contains 30 individual worms, with each one packing 10mg of CBD.
Neuro-Peak is a nootropic that supports memory, focus, and clarity. It contains ginkgo biloba, which is rich in powerful antioxidants that can help maintain healthy brain function. Whether you’re a business professional or a student, Neuro-Peak is designed to help you feel at the top of your game.
Qualia Mind is a premium nootropic that supports mental performance. It contains 28 vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO ingredients including 6 nootropic compounds and 7 neuro-vitamins. The product is formulated based on science which supports the upregulation of multiple pathways and processes.
Performance Lab® Mind is a daily brain supplement that supports focus, clarity, memory, mood, and long-term brain health. It is made using research-backed ingredients and produced to clean label standards. It starts working in around 30 minutes and may even lead to a clearer mind over longer periods.
Ü Relax is a calming powder that promotes deep relaxation and calms nerves. It’s made with delicious fruit flavors. Add 1 packet to 4-6 ounces of cold water and feel your stress slowly slip away. Each serving takes just a few minutes to set in, providing up to 4 hours of pure, uninterrupted bliss.
Om® Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules are Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan, kosher, gluten-free, keto & paleo friendly, and have no sugar added. They are a perfect daily supplement for anyone looking to naturally boost their health. Lion’s Mane Mushroom Capsules can help fuel your brain.
1. Suliman, N. A., Taib, C. A., Moklas, M. a. M., Adenan, M. I., Baharuldin, M. T. H., & Basir, R. (2016d). Establishing Natural Nootropics: Recent Molecular Enhancement Influenced by Natural Nootropic. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/4391375
2. Velazquez, R.. (2020). Nootropics for Creativity: Transcend Blocks and Unleash Peak Creative Brainpower. Mind Lab Pro. https://www.mindlabpro.com/blogs/nootropics/nootropics-creativity
3. Abramowitz, E. (2023). The 10 Best Nootropics For Creativity: Supplements, Biohacks, & More. Holistic Nootropics. https://holisticnootropics.com/best-nootropics-for-creativity/
4. Müller, U. A., Rowe, J. B., Rittman, T., Lewis, G., Robbins, T. W., & Sahakian, B. J. (2013). Effects of modafinil on non-verbal cognition, task enjoyment and creative thinking in healthy volunteers. Neuropharmacology, 64, 490–495. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuropharm.2012.07.009
5. Zabelina, D. L., & Silvia, P. J. (2020). Percolating ideas: The effects of caffeine on creative thinking and problem-solving. Consciousness and Cognition, 79, 102899. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.concog.2020.102899
6. Lieberman, H. R., Wurtman, R. J., Emde, G. G., Roberts, C., & Coviella, I. L. G. (1987). The effects of low doses of caffeine on human performance and mood. Psychopharmacology, 92(3), 308–312. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf00210835
7. Chong, P. S., Fung, M., Wong, K., & Lim, L. Y. (2019). Therapeutic Potential of Hericium erinaceus for Depressive Disorder. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 21(1), 163. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21010163
8. Nobre, A. C., Rao, A., & Owen, G. (2008). L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state. PubMed, 17 Suppl 1, 167–168. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18296328
9. Priori, A., Leta, V., Mariani, C., Pantoni, L., & Pomati, S. (2019). Exploring cocoa properties: is theobromine a cognitive modulator? Psychopharmacology, 236(2), 561–572. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00213-019-5172-0
Discover science-backed approaches to boost brain health and maximize cognitive function.
Mindfulness is a hot topic, with its benefits linked to supporting mental health, lowering stress, […]
Most of us don’t really think about the relationship between our brain and our gut. […]
These days, most of us know the benefits of exercise for both our body and […]
Learn about the newest breakthroughs and techniques for optimizing brain function.
Broaden your understanding of brain science by tracking the latest findings from these accomplished specialists.
Dr. Amy Killen is an author, entrepreneur, and physician specializing in anti-aging and regenerative medicine. She has experience in hormone therapy, sexual wellness, stem cell therapy, and integrative medicine. With respect to biohacking, she strongly supports that optimizing sexual health can promote wellness and longevity.
Her experience as an emergency doctor allowed her to see first-hand the effects of chronic illness, which led to her to explore regenerative medicine. Her current practice is focused on traditional medicine mixed with regenerative therapy, hormone therapy, and prevention-focused techniques. She is the founder and CEO of the Human Optimization Project, a company offering education and supplements for longevity and wellness.
Dr. Killen also helped develop the Full Body Stem Cell Makeover, a revolutionary procedure for body rejuvenation. She is an in demand speaker in the holistic health world and has shared her expertise in various podcasts as well as on social media through YouTube and Twitter.
Nathalie Niddam is an epigenetic coach, author, and certified holistic nutritionist from Canada. In her practice, she incorporates ideas from neuroscience, nutraceuticals, biohacking, and resilience training. She has vast knowledge and expertise on health optimization, particularly when it comes to using bioregulator peptides as tools for healing, anti-aging, and longevity.
Her interest in the field led her to build and moderate a huge Facebook community called “Optimizing Superhuman Performance,” which focuses on how the body is capable of repairing itself through bioregulator peptides. Soon after, she created her podcast, “Biohacking Superhuman Performance,” where she has conversations with experts regarding biohacking, longevity, and nutrition. She also created Nathalie Niddam Nutrition, which provides coaching, online courses, and a supportive community which encourages people to proactively manage their well-being through positive lifestyle changes.
Beside sharing on Instagram and YouTube, Niddam speaks in conferences and has been featured on networks such as NBC News, CBS 2 News, and Market Watch.
Unveiling the power of your brain for a longer life filled with mental clarity and fulfillment.
Yes, certain supplements can enhance creativity and promote innovative thinking. One popular supplement is L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea. It can increase alpha brainwave activity, associated with relaxation and creative states. Another supplement is creatine, which supports brain energy metabolism and has been shown to enhance cognitive performance, including creative problem-solving.
Spending time in nature has a positive impact on creativity and cognitive function. Nature therapy, also known as ecotherapy or forest bathing, has been shown to reduce stress and mental fatigue while improving mood and cognitive performance. Immersing yourself in natural environments can stimulate creative thinking, provide inspiration, and enhance overall brain function.
There are several effective creative practices and exercises for stimulating the brain. Engaging in activities like brainstorming, mind mapping, or freewriting can help generate new ideas and foster creative thinking. Divergent thinking exercises, such as coming up with multiple solutions to a problem, can also expand creative possibilities. Additionally, engaging in artistic pursuits like drawing, painting, or playing a musical instrument can stimulate the brain’s creative centers.
Yes, practicing mindfulness or meditation can enhance creativity. Mindfulness and meditation cultivate present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance, allowing the mind to settle and create mental space for new ideas to emerge. By calming the mind and reducing mental clutter, mindfulness and meditation can enhance focus, inspiration, and the ability to think creatively.
Sleep quality and dream recall can have a significant impact on creativity. Quality sleep, particularly during the REM (rapid eye movement) stage, is essential for consolidating memories, fostering creativity, and enhancing problem-solving abilities. Dream recall can provide valuable insights and creative ideas. Keeping a dream journal or engaging in practices that enhance dream recall, such as setting intentions before sleep, can harness the creative potential of dreams.
Yes, exposure to new experiences and novel environments can boost creativity. Seeking out new experiences, exploring unfamiliar places, and exposing yourself to different cultures or perspectives can expand your creative repertoire. Novelty and diversity stimulate the brain, foster curiosity, and encourage the development of innovative ideas.
Yes, certain dietary factors can support creative thinking. Consuming a well-balanced diet that includes foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and vegetables, can support brain health and enhance cognitive function, including creative thinking. Additionally, incorporating omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fatty fish, chia seeds, or flaxseeds can provide essential nutrients for brain function and creativity.
Physical exercise has a positive impact on creative thinking and problem-solving. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients necessary for optimal cognitive function. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters that improve mood and enhance creative thinking. Engaging in regular physical activity, whether it’s cardio exercises, strength training, or even walking, can boost creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Yes, specific techniques like brainwave entrainment can enhance creativity. Brainwave entrainment involves using auditory or visual stimuli, such as binaural beats or flickering lights, to synchronize brainwaves to specific frequencies associated with creative states. This technique can help induce a relaxed, focused, and creative mindset, enhancing the brain’s ability to generate innovative ideas.
Establishing a creative routine or ritual can support a more creative mindset by providing structure and a dedicated space for creative expression. Setting aside regular time for creative activities, whether it’s writing, painting, or brainstorming, creates a habit of creativity. Rituals associated with creativity, such as lighting a candle or listening to specific music, can signal the brain that it’s time for imaginative thinking, fostering a more creative mindset.
Unleash your creative genius with biohacking techniques that push the boundaries of innovation.
Discover podcasts, YouTube channels, websites, apps, and more to enhance your knowledge and empower your biohacking journey.
The Creativity Post is a non-profit web platform that is dedicated to curating and sharing exceptional content on creativity. It acts as a catalyst for meaningful conversations among different fields of inquiry while upholding the integrity of the science behind creativity.
The platform highlights the endeavors of practitioners who actively foster creativity, whether in educational settings or corporate environments.
Covering a wide range of topics, from scientific breakthroughs to philosophical debates, from artistic expression to technological advancements, The Creativity Post embraces the diverse aspects of the human experience that are brought to life through creativity.
Creative Pep Talk is a popular podcast hosted by artist Andy J. Miller. It offers motivation, guidance, and practical advice to help creative individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
Through solo episodes and interviews with successful artists and designers, the podcast explores various aspects of the creative process, including finding one’s artistic voice, building a personal brand, and maintaining motivation.
With its energetic delivery, insightful content, and emphasis on empowerment, Creative Pep Talk has become a valuable resource for creatives seeking to biohack their creativity through encouragement and inspiration.
