l to r (top): doodles from Jaycie Van Housen, Jack Woloshun, Charne Gooch
(bottom): Steve Ivy, Angelene Samuel, Daisy Chain
One of the fun things that has happened since the launch of the book is that I’ve connected with other fellow-doodlers! I enjoy receiving doodles from you and hearing your stories! Here are common themes that emerge in conversations with my fellow-doodlers –
Doodling helps improve focus. It helps the doodler not only stay focused on a task, but also improves the quality/depth of focus.
Doodling has a calming effect on the doodler. As many of you know, there’s something about repetitive motion that contributes to relaxation. Ask any knitter or avid mountain biker!
Doodling aids in consolidation and assimilation of material. This is why it is valuable in meditation, in helping an individual connect deeply with a passage from scripture.
Doodling can help with pain management by distracting the brain (which possibly helps tone down the intensity of pain signals sent to the brain).
Doodling is an enjoyable activity and can be done just for the sheer pleasure it brings.
Research has proven without a shadow of doubt that shapes and patterns, specially those with contrast grab our attention and focus which can lead to concentration, even intense concentration. Here’s one example –
From a study was done by Professor Jackie Andrade, of the School of Psychology at the University of Plymouth. (google doodlingCaseStudy to download a pdf of the study)
“Doodling while listening can help with remembering details, rather than implying that the mind is wandering as is the common perception. According to a study published today in the Applied Cognitive Psychology journal, subjects given a doodling task while listening to a dull phone message had a 29% improved recall compared to their non-doodling counterparts.”
Of course, doodling does not work for everybody. Mountain biking, music, knitting, or dancing may be your thing. Find it, whatever it is, and celebrate it!
~shini abraham, ©2013, duco divina – contemplative doodling
Hi Shini, That is interesting about doodling & concentration! As I read this, I remembered that I used to doodle while on the phone (growing up). One time while on the phone, the person was telling me a story. When he was finished speaking, he asked if I ‘got’ it. I repeated it back to him practically word for word. He asked, ‘how did you do that? did you record this?’ No, I just recalled the flow of the entire story that was placed in my head. It’s so true about the concentration!
I am definitely going to start doodling again.
You are an inspiring writer. Thank you for capturing your thoughts & insights on paper and sharing them.
Thank you Therese for leaving an inspiring comment. I’m excited you’re going to start doodling again!