Take a Walk, Think Creatively
Psychology Today
by Sally Augustin Ph.D.February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Walking isn’t just good for physical fitness—it can also boost your creative thinking and mental performance, according to recent research. A study by Christian Rominger and his team found that walking is strongly linked to enhanced creative verbal thinking, building on earlier findings by Oppezzo and Schwartz, who showed a connection between movement and creativity. This isn’t surprising to anyone familiar with the habits of writers and thinkers, many of whom credit walks with sparking their best ideas.
The key takeaway from these studies? The most effective walks are those that feel comfortable in terms of pace and duration. Walking doesn’t even need to happen outdoors—it can be just as beneficial on a treadmill. However, walking in nature does offer additional mental benefits, such as reduced stress and improved focus. Whether you’re strolling through a meadow or stepping on a treadmill, the act of walking itself seems to have a powerful impact on how your brain functions.
For those looking to enhance their creativity, making walking a regular part of your routine is essential. If outdoor walks aren’t feasible, incorporating an indoor walking path in your home or workplace can help you stay active and mentally sharp regardless of weather conditions. Even small changes, like creating winding paths in your yard with interesting features
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/24/2026