The Washington PostThe Washington Post

Why do we get our best ideas in the shower?

By Richard Sima

12 Jan 2023 · 4 min read

Editor's Note

Much of our day-to-day is bound up in productivity, yet we are often our most creative in those pockets of time carved out for rest. The Washington Post weighs in on the "shower effect".

Amid the mist and suds, a good shower can relax not only your body but also your mind, unleashing streams of consciousness, clarity and creativity.

Research shows that what is known as the "shower effect" also can occur outside the shower, and many of our best thoughts don't happen at work or school - but occur while going about our days with ideas incubating in the background.

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