Doodles that heal

Did you know that an act as simple as doodling in the corner of a sheet of paper is a powerful creative mechanism for releasing stress?

It is very common for people to doodle while waiting on the phone or listening to the boss in a meeting. These strokes sometimes start as simple and careless; however, the curves gain shape and interest as the call or meeting progresses.

Without realizing it, this action helps us release the tension generated by the expectation of the moment, helping us, on many occasions, to succeed in resolving the situation. (1)

It’s as if, by tangling lines, we were untangling ideas, fears, doubts, and frustrations. Doodling is, under no circumstances, a mindless act. In fact, I have experienced it more as a form of concentration and healing.

Give me paper and a pencil

When I realized I was doodling in stressful situations, I tried creating doodles with intention. That is, outside the context of stress or a waiting moment. I looked for a large sheet of paper, a pencil, markers, and colored pencils.

intentional doodles. First, I filled the sheet with doodles. I didn’t try to create shapes; I just gave my hand free rein. To help, I focused on a feeling or something that was bothering me at that moment. Then, I traced everything again with ink. This was a way to reconnect with my consciousness and ask myself how many “whys” arose in the process. Incidentally, I found patterns, interesting shapes, and images. With the colors, I created intricate landscapes and discovered worlds.

From darkness to light

The bright colors helped me to illuminate dark areas and beautify areas of pain. It was like thanking the person who hurt my feelings for helping me understand that I also have the option not to be hurt.

So, the next time you find yourself doodling in the corner of your notebook, don’t throw it in the trash. What you have before you is the key to the labyrinth of your emotions. A key with the power to open doors to healing paths.

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(1) This article was written based on my personal experience, but to make sure I wasn’t sharing invented theories without a scientific basis, here are several articles that discuss the benefits of doodling.

https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health-benefits-doodling

https://www.canva.com/learn/7-ways-doodling-will-change-your-life