I have basically zero artistic abilities. I can’t draw anything that looks realistic, and I have no eye for painting. I have never tried sculpting but based on my other creative abilities, I’m pretty sure I know how that would go.
But I like to make art. I like to doodle or to do calligraphy. Even just drawing figure eights repeatedly or hearts seems to be enough. There is something soothing about taking a pen or pencil and gliding it over a page. Even finger painting would be fun, but a little messy. Still, any outlet where you can shut off the analytical mind and just let the creative part of you flow is worthwhile.
Action – If you are an artist, then use your talents. Don’t pressure yourself to make something that will be valuable or impress others; the idea of this is to just lose yourself for a few minutes or an hour in doing something that involves little thought.
If you are like me and are definitely not an artist, then you should feel no pressure to make something that looks good. Create something just for yourself and then you can throw it away.
Steps – Doodling is the simplest way to do this. Just grab a pen, pencil or some crayons and do whatever you want to do. It doesn’t need to look like anything and no one else needs to see it. Don’t think, just scribble. If your mind won’t be quiet, then count your breaths in and out as you draw. Eventually you will be able to let go and just flow with it.
Why It Makes You Feel Better – There is a reason that colouring books for adults have become popular in the last few years. As much as we need to be intellectual, there is a creative side to all of us that needs equal expression. In the modern world we tend to disregard this and lose touch with the need to create.
Drawing or doodling or smearing colour onto a canvas is a great way to express emotions and feelings without having to use words. This can be extremely beneficial for mental health. Drawing can also help to improve memory and stimulate the brain in new ways, keeping it healthy by being active and generating new neural pathways.
Doodling during a meeting or a lecture can even aid concentration and retention by engaging enough of the brain to keep it more focused on what is happening and not wandering off. Next time you need to focus on something, give it a try and see for yourself.
Example – Because my doodling will never look like anything fabulous, I like to use my non-dominant hand to do it. This provides a double challenge. Whether drawing figure eights or characters that could be Japanese but most definitely aren’t, my mind settles down and I can access a place of deep calm. It takes only a few short moments for this to happen.
Pick up a pen and start to doodle. Your brain will appreciate the time to relax and unwind from the normal hectic routine of life.