Creative Activities That Support Brain Health Over Time
Engaging in activities you enjoy can help sustain your brain health. Selecting activities that feature creativity can be particularly beneficial. If you want to take up drawing, for example, you should go for it. Or you could introduce creativity into vocabulary learning. Incorporate new vocabulary words you’ve learned into your interactions. In general, approaching life with creativity can help your brain. You can take notice of the world around you. And it can vary set routines in ways that give you a new perspective.
Activities Focusing on Language
One way you can strengthen your brain through language is by learning new vocabulary. There is evidence to indicate that this can be helpful. Vocabulary study works multiple sections of your brain. According to Healthline, vocabulary learning involves “areas that are important for visual and auditory processing.” You can take an active approach to learning vocabulary by carrying a vocabulary notebook. Each day, you can write down a word you encounter that is new to you. Then look up that word and write down its definition. After you have learned your new word, apply the word creatively. Find five ways to use this word as you go through daily life.
Another way language activities can help with brain health is through language study. Take on the mentally engaging task of learning a new language. Stanford Lifestyle Medicine suggests: “Download a language learning app on your smartphone.” Research has shown that language learning can facilitate cognitive flexibility. It has also been shown to help with memory. Healthline states: “Learning a new language requires a tremendous amount of brain activity.”
Engaging in Creativity
According to Stanford Lifestyle Medicine, a “key activity for long-term brain health is creating art.” Art therapy has been found to be beneficial for improving memory, according to research. Participating in artistic activities can be mentally engaging. Find a form of art you would enjoy, like craft projects or creative sculpture.
Dance is also a creative pursuit that benefits the brain. According to the CDC, “learning new dance moves can increase your brain’s processing speed.” The CDC has also recognized learning dance as helpful for memory. You can learn dance online or in person, solo or with an enthusiastic dance partner or friends.
Creative Approaches to Everyday Life
Approaching life with creativity will benefit your brain health. Healthline recommends: “Don’t get stuck in a rut when it comes to daily tasks.” Vary how you go about your routines. For instance, try multiple methods of getting to work, like cycling or public transport. Try traveling to your workplace by different routes. Variations in your life can prompt new ideas. Additionally, engage with the world around you through your senses. In 2025, research found this engagement potentially helpful for strengthening the brain. Pay attention to experiences such as restaurant visits via each of your senses.
Working Proactively on Brain Health
Creative engagement with the world can help you work on brain health. For instance, attention to your senses can help you notice details in daily activities. Additionally, select activities that can help your brain remain flexible, strong, and healthy, like learning a new language. Creative endeavors are beneficial for brain health. Getting into dance can be good for the brain. So can taking up photography or sculpture.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns you may have about your health or a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you’ve read here.
