Why creativity matters for University Student productivity

A few weeks ago, I came across the concept of an art gym in London, and it immediately caught my attention. As a creative person with a fairly structured, regular job, I know first-hand how important it is to make time for creativity — not as a hobby you squeeze in when everything else is done, but as something essential.

What stood out to me about this company was how differently they approach creativity. Instead of seeing it as a luxury or something reserved for artists, they treat it like exercise: something you practise regularly to stay mentally fit. From experience, I know that when creativity is nurtured, my other work benefits too — I feel more focused, calmer, and ultimately more productive.

That’s why the idea behind London-based art gym EASL feels especially relevant for university students, who are often under constant pressure to perform, stay productive, and manage stress all at once.

How an art gym in London can help students stay productive

University productivity is usually framed as better timetables, sharper study techniques, and fewer distractions. But there’s another factor that often makes the biggest difference: mental wellbeing. When stress builds up, focus drops, motivation fades, and even simple tasks start to feel heavy.

That’s why a young London company called EASL is worth watching. It positions itself as London’s first art gym, built around a simple idea: if people train their bodies to stay healthy, they can also train their minds through creativity.

What is an art gym, exactly?

EASL brings guided creative sessions into workplaces and communities, with the goal of making creativity easy to access and part of a regular routine.

The sessions are designed to remove common barriers:

• No artistic experience needed
• No pressure to be “good” at art
• All equipment and materials provided
• Guidance, inspiration, and structured exercises included
• Set-up and clean-up handled for participants

This matters for students because many feel they have to “push through” stress to stay productive. In reality, productivity improves when the brain gets time to reset.

Why creativity can improve student productivity

Creative activity can support the skills students use daily, such as attention, memory, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. When the mind is overloaded, creativity works like a mental switch-off, helping students return to study with more clarity.

In practical terms, students who build small creative breaks into their routine often report benefits such as:

• Better focus during study sessions
• Less stress before deadlines and exams
• Improved motivation and energy
• More flexible thinking for essays and projects

Student workshops and wellbeing initiatives

EASL also offers student workshops, aiming to make the art gym concept accessible to students as a wellness-focused habit.

The emphasis is not on art therapy or diagnosis, but on preventative wellbeing: lowering stress, strengthening mental fitness, and building positive connections with others.

For universities, student support teams, and student communities, creative sessions can be an inclusive alternative to typical social events, helping people connect without relying on loud spaces or alcohol-centred plans.

A better definition of productivity at the university

Productivity is not just about doing more. It’s about doing what matters with a clear head. For students, that means protecting focus, reducing burnout risk, and creating routines that support long-term performance.

Creativity can be part of that routine. Just like physical exercise supports physical health, regular creative exercise can support mental fitness and help students study in a more sustainable way.

Looking for student accommodation near the university?

Well-being is also shaped by where students live. A calm, comfortable home can make study routines easier and reduce day-to-day stress.

Hallbookers helps students explore student accommodation options across the UK, including places near the university.

And if a student has already moved in, they can rate & review their accommodation on Hallbookers to help other students choose with confidence.

Frequently asked questions

Is an art gym the same as art therapy?

No. An art gym focuses on creativity as a preventative wellbeing habit. It is not a substitute for professional mental health support.

Do students need to be good at art to join?

No. Sessions are designed for beginners and focus on process, play, and creative confidence rather than talent or results.

How can creativity help with studying?

Short creative breaks can reduce stress, refresh attention, and support flexible thinking, which helps students return to study with more clarity.

Is this useful during exam season?

Yes. Many students find that structured creative activity helps lower anxiety and prevent mental fatigue, especially during high-pressure periods.

What else can support student well-being besides creative habits?

Sleep, movement, routines, and a supportive living environment all play a role. Choosing student accommodation that fits a student’s lifestyle can also help reduce daily stress.