Brain loves creativity
In 2025, we already know that creative activities are not just leisure activities. They are small forms of mental hygiene.
Research shows that creative activities activate similar parts of the brain as meditation. Painting, cooking, or dancing reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increases the production of dopamine, the hormone of joy and motivation. In other words, when you create, your brain actively rests.
If you work with your head all day, try a manual activity in the evening—such as a sewing course at Materialistic or making a wooden stool at Hobbylab.
Creativity as mental hygiene
Psychologists talk about the so-called flow effect—a state in which we lose track of time because we are fully immersed in an activity. Flow stabilizes emotions, reduces anxiety, and lowers the risk of burnout.
Everyone enters this state differently—some while drawing, others while baking bread or playing an instrument.
At ArtMomentu or Liška Mazaná, you will discover that clay, colors, scents, and hands in motion can clear your head more effectively than many time management training courses.
Handicrafts as a cure for digital fatigue
The digital world constantly draws us to screens, while manual work brings us back to our bodies and senses.
Fine motor skills also promote finesse in thinking—with the rhythmic repetition of strokes, stitches, or hammer blows, the brain enters a meditative rhythm.
Try a photography workshop at Polagraph – light, composition, story. At the shoemaking course at Ladon & Lerach, you can make your own pair of shoes and discover that patience has its own smell and sound. Or try a blacksmithing course at the Kovář Academy – the hammer blows have a surprisingly therapeutic effect, even for those who otherwise spend their days behind a keyboard.
- Did you know that... people who engage in short creative activities every day show higher levels of psychological well-being—they are more optimistic, resilient, and better able to cope with stress?
Brain needs play
Creativity manifests itself not only in creation, but also in thinking.
Chess develops the ability to anticipate and plan, improves memory and concentration. If you are attracted to this quiet form of meditation, try Šachy pro každého, which combines logic, concentration, and the joy of playing.
Music has a similar effect. Playing an instrument activates up to five areas of the brain simultaneously, improving memory, coordination, and emotional stability. Music Academy Prague offers piano, guitar, and singing lessons that not only help develop talent but also relieve tension after a busy day.
When creativity tastes good
Cooking is the most accessible form of creativity. We combine flavors, colors, and aromas—and the result is right in front of us.
If you want to take cooking to the next level, Chefparade organizes courses in world cuisine, from Italian to Thai. Studio Divoká vařečka combines cooking with the joy of experimentation and an informal atmosphere.
And if you are fascinated by the connection between food and nature, take a look into the world of herbs with the Energie rostlin courses, which show you how to use the power of plants in everyday life – from teas to natural cosmetics.
- Tip: Prepare food slowly and take in the aromas—olfactory sensations are linked to the emotional center of the brain. That's one reason why "grandma's cooking" can calm us down faster than a meditation app.
Creation as burnout prevention
Burnout syndrome often arises not only from overload, but also from a loss of meaning. Creativity restores a sense of fulfillment because something remains after we create something. Whether it's a painting, a photograph, or your own cup.
According to neuroscientists studying dopamine loops, the brain likes cycles: effort → result → reward. That's why we feel satisfaction after completing a creative activity, even if it's not a performance.
Tips for maintaining creativity during the week:
- Spend 20 minutes a day doing something that doesn't involve thinking about work.
- Have a creative corner at home – a place where you can create without worrying about perfection.
- Have one offline evening a week – no screens, just your hands.
- Share your creations – social contact increases motivation and the joy of creating.
How to start and stick with it
- Choose an activity that appeals to you, not one you want to be perfect at.
- Write down time for yourself in your calendar as seriously as you would a work meeting.
- Don't judge the result—the process is what matters.
- Start with a small step. Even just one hour a week can transform the way you experience your everyday life.
Art of slowing down
Creativity is not an escape from reality, but a return to the present.
You don't need more time, just allow yourself to slow down a little.
At Benefit Plus, we connect employees with partners where you can develop your creativity not only for pleasure, but also as a tool for self-care – from painting classes to culinary workshops, from sewing to playing an instrument.
Use your benefits as an investment in creativity. You may find that what heals you most is not another vacation—but half an hour with paints, wood, or dough. And that's the biggest art project you can have.
