Did You Know That Creative People Have Different Hormones?
If you're like me, your brain spends a lot of time imagining new possibilities. Did you know that people who have creative brains have unique hormone chemistry that cause us to behave differently? This means that as creative people we have to take care of ourselves differently than everyone else too...
As a creative person, you know the exhilaration of a new idea, the joy of losing yourself in your craft, and the satisfaction of seeing your vision come to life. But have you ever noticed that sometimes, the very qualities that make you great at what you do can also make you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even burnt out?
That's because, according to Dr. Michael Platt, author of the book "Adrenaline Dominance," creative people tend to have a unique hormone chemistry that can cause them to behave differently. Specifically, many creative people are "adrenaline dominant," meaning that they produce more adrenaline than the average person. Adrenaline is a hormone that the body releases in response to stress, but it also plays a role in focus, alertness, and even creativity.
But why do creative people tend to be "adrenaline dominant"? It could be because our brains burn through more sugar and so our bodies release adrenaline to make up for the dip in energy.
On the one hand, being adrenaline dominant can be a good thing for creative people. The heightened focus and awareness that come with adrenaline can help you power through a project, come up with new ideas, and stay on task for longer periods of time. However, on the other hand, adrenaline is a "Fight or flight" hormone can also make you more sensitive to stress and more prone to anxiety, which can lead to burnout, procrastination, and a host of other problems.
Luckily there are a few things you can do to keep the adrenaline under control...
Creative people are often prone to energy dips and spikes, which can cause adrenaline to be released as a way to compensate for low blood sugar. One of the most important things you can do as a creative/adrenaline dominant person is to balance your blood sugar. This means eating plenty of protein and healthy fat and avoiding too much refined sugar...
Another factor to consider is estrogen and progesterone levels. If you're experiencing period problems like PMS, PMDD, irregular periods or endometriosis, get your estrogen and progesterone levels checked using a urine test with a qualified practitioner. These problems can compound the effects of adrenaline dominance, making you even more sensitive to stress.
In addition to these factors, there are many other ways to manage your adrenaline levels and stay balanced as a creative person. Some people find that mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help them stay centered and focused. Others find that regular exercise, especially in nature, can help them release excess adrenaline and feel more relaxed. Still others find that creative hobbies like painting, knitting, or playing music can help them unwind and recharge.
Ultimately, the key is to pay attention to your own unique hormone chemistry and find the strategies that work best for you. By taking care of your body and mind, you can harness the power of adrenaline without letting it overwhelm you. So go ahead and let your creativity flow, but remember to take care of yourself along the way!
