Goofing Around is Good For the Brain--So Is Housework!

I've completely ignored my blog this week. Instead I've been lounging on my sofa, reading until the patch of morning sunshine moves. I de-cluttered my basement, giving boxes of unused stuff to charity. I've written, but it's all silly stuff--like a poem in the shape of Justin Bieber's hair. Let's just say I have more appreciation for his hair-stylist, and less appreciation for my poetry skills.

And I've felt a wee bit guilty and more than a bit unproductive. But--

Then I went to my monthly SCBWI meeting and learned that all that goofing around is actually good for my brain!

Kim Justesen, author of My Brother The Dog, explained that our brains constantly form new neural pathways. Trying new things--like Bieber hair poems--creates new pathways! (Kim asked us to write something with our non-dominant hand as a brain-enhancing exercise.)

Following old pathways, well-worn roads that form with routine actions like housework, frees our brains to think of creative ideas. That's why we often have great insights in the shower. So I guess I really should do more housework... I did spend my basement-cleaning time musing about my new WIP.

The bottom line: break out of your routine every now and then. Try new foods, go new places, write something wacky, or better yet write somewhere wacky... And then fold the laundry.

It's good for your brain.