5 Mental Health Benefits of Drawing
This month, we’re continuing to spotlight mental health in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. As our lives become increasingly digital and online, we believe that’s it essential to maintain a healthy balance by setting aside time to slow down and unplug. Spending a little time out of your day to exercise your creativity can build a strong foundation for your mental health. Drawing or just doodling not only helps you open up your creativity but can also help you manage stress and anxiety. Here are 5 ways drawing and doodling are beneficial to your mental health:
Drawing enhances your creativity and activates your brain
Drawing actively opens your brain to creative thinking. Developing a sense of imagination helps stimulate the brain, creating new pathways allowing you to process new ideas and engage in creative problem-solving. This practice can help you not only create something beautiful but also apply that same imaginative power and critical thinking skills to your everyday situations.
Drawing is an act of mediation and promotes mindfulness
What can be perceived as mindless doodling or sketching is actually the opposite. Taking the time to focus on a sketch allows you to be more mindful of the world around you. Centering yourself and setting aside time with a pencil or paintbrush in hand can help you find a sense of balance in your day to day.
Doodling can help you get your mind off of things
Doodling can help induce what scientists call the “flow” state. During the process, you become fully engaged with the project at hand. This increased concentration can help push away any distractions or negative thoughts that you may be experiencing.
Drawing allows you to communicate better and develop a visual language
Drawing is like learning or practicing a new language. Exercising your creativity can help you express complex thoughts or emotions that you may not be able to find the words for. Developing this visual language helps you better understand yourself and your own personal thoughts, feelings, and desires. Through this, it may also help benefit the way you communicate with the world around you.
Art is therapeutic and an effective form of stress relief
Art therapy is a common and effective practice. It is scientifically proven that engaging with art reduces stress and anxiety. Putting pencil to paper allows you to control what is being created. When you create something, your body releases dopamine, activating the reward centers of your brain. This sense of achievement and accomplishment can help alleviate some amount of stress that you may be feeling.