The Benefits of Daily Doodling: How Drawing Can Improve Your Life
Have you ever found yourself zoning out and scribbling doodles in the margins of your notebook during a boring lecture or meeting? Turns out, this mindless activity could actually be doing wonders for your mental well-being. In fact, research has shown that daily doodling can have a multitude of benefits, ranging from stress relief to increased creativity.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Drawing, much like other creative activities, can have a calming effect on the mind. It allows you to enter a meditative state, where you can focus solely on the present moment and let go of any intrusive or anxious thoughts. Additionally, doodling has been found to lower cortisol levels, the hormone responsible for stress, and promote the production of endorphins, which make us feel good.
Improved Memory and Concentration
When we doodle, we engage the brain’s default mode network, which is associated with daydreaming and mind-wandering. This type of free-flow thinking can actually improve our memory and concentration by helping us retain information more effectively. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Plymouth found that doodlers were able to recall 29% more information than non-doodlers in recall tests.
Enhanced Creativity
By engaging in daily doodling, we can tap into our inner creativity and spark new ideas. This is because doodling allows us to explore different possibilities and experiment with new visual patterns and designs. Plus, it’s a low-pressure way to flex our creative muscles without the fear of failure.
Increased Productivity
Believe it or not, taking a few minutes each day to doodle can actually boost productivity. This is because it allows us to take a mental break from our work and return with renewed focus and energy. Additionally, doodling can help us better organize our thoughts and ideas, leading to more efficient problem-solving and decision-making.
Conclusion
Incorporating daily doodling into your routine can have numerous benefits for both your mental and professional life. So, the next time you find yourself with a spare minute, grab a pen and let your creativity flow. Your brain will thank you for it.
