Doodling for Stress Relief: Creative Expression Through Art

Doodling is more than just scribbling—it's a form of creative expression that can help relieve stress and overthinking. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of doodling, share some personal insights, and showcase various styles of doodling.

Benefits of Doodling

Doodling can serve as a therapeutic outlet, helping individuals to focus, relax, and alleviate anxiety. Some people find that it sparks their creativity, while others use it to clear their minds. Regardless of the reason, doodling offers a simple yet effective way to enhance mental well-being.

Personal Insights on Doodling

For many, doodling comes naturally, while others may need to cultivate the habit over time. Here, a doodling enthusiast shares her journey and the reasons why she enjoys this form of art.

When Doodling Doesn't Seem Like Doodling

Some individuals might not consider what they create as doodling, opting instead for more structured forms of art. For instance, Mandala Art can be a meditative experience that brings a sense of calm and order to the mind. As someone who finds mandala art particularly soothing, this practice helps her regain her senses when her thoughts are in a tumultuous state.

Historical Insights

Not everyone engages in doodling regularly. In fact, the shift to digital communication has significantly reduced the time spent on handwriting, leading to a decrease in doodling for some. However, during one's teens and early 20s, doodling can become an obsessive yet enjoyable pastime. For example, drawing profile faces of dogs and curly abstract designs can be a fun and therapeutic activity.

Context-Specific Doodling

Doodling has also played a role in specific contexts, such as during events or projects. One instance of this is a doodle created during the Foundation Programme closing ceremony at IIT Gandhinagar. This event, known as Eureka, is a 4-week-long immersive experience for first-year students. As an art-loving individual, the author joined the decoration team, responsible for designing the entire event from invitation cards to the auditorium decoration. The doodle in question was a collaborative piece, combining various elements and keywords related to the program. The team's efforts paid off, resulting in a successful and memorable event.

Recent Doodles

Here are some recent doodles by the author, showcasing a range of styles and inspirations. These doodles are not preplanned but rather subjected to the momentary inspirations found on social media or personal thoughts. These doodles serve as a snapshot of the creative process and can be found on the author's Instagram highlights. Feel free to share any suggestions or comments!

Encouragement and Participation

Whether you are a seasoned doodler or just starting, there is always room for improvement. In the comments section, we welcome your thoughts and suggestions. Who knows, maybe you'll inspire the next doodle! Keep creating and sharing your art.

— The Doodle Enthusiast