Do you ever find yourself scribbling aimlessly during a meeting or a lecture? While it may seem mindless, doodling has been proven to benefit the brain significantly. Studies have shown that doodling can enhance cognitive function and creativity, helping you to focus and retain information better.
Below, we will explore the “thinking” benefits of doodling and why you should start incorporating this simple habit into your routine.
Improves Memory Retention
Doodling engages both brain hemispheres, which can help improve memory retention. As we doodle, we activate the brain’s default mode network, allowing us to process information from past experiences and learning.
This means your brain actively processes the information you receive, even if you do not pay attention. Studies have shown that doodling can improve recall by as much as 29%!
Enhances Creativity and Problem-Solving
Doodling can also enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities. When we doodle, we allow our minds to wander and generate new ideas, which opens up the possibility for new solutions to problems. Additionally, doodling can help us think more visually, which is particularly useful when brainstorming or designing.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Doodling has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain, making it a great tool for reducing stress and anxiety. By engaging in this simple yet creative activity, we can distract our minds from negative thoughts and emotions and instead focus on something more positive and constructive.
In this way, doodling can act as a form of active meditation, helping to bring peace and calm to our lives.
Increases Focus and Attention Span
People find that doodling can help them focus better during meetings or lectures. By keeping their hands busy with drawing, they can stay engaged and attentive, even if the topic is not exciting or engaging. This can be especially helpful for visual learners who need to see information to process it.
Improves Hand-Eye Coordination
Doodling is good for our motor skills and hand-eye coordination. We may not notice it, but we actively engage our brains and train our hands to work in unison when we doodle. This can be especially beneficial for people recovering from an injury or surgery who must re-train their hand muscles.
Overcoming Creative Blocks
Creative blocks are common challenges artists, writers, and other creative professionals face. Doodling can be an effective method for overcoming these blocks and jumpstarting creativity. Individuals can bypass self-criticism and perfectionism by using free-flowing doodles, allowing ideas to flow naturally. This process can be a warm-up exercise before diving into more significant creative projects.
Improving Fine Motor Skills
Doodling requires precise and controlled hand movements, which can help improve fine motor skills. This is especially beneficial for children who are still developing their motor skills. The repetitive and intentional movements involved in doodling can strengthen hand-eye coordination and develop better control over writing and drawing tools.
Boosts Productivity
Finally, doodling can boost productivity by helping us stay engaged and energized throughout the day. Taking short breaks to doodle can help us recharge our mental batteries and return to work with renewed focus and creativity. In this way, doodling can be an important tool in enhancing productivity and achieving our goals.