Doodling: Why Those Little Scribbles Matter

twotalkingparrots
Jan 21
3 min read

Let’s be honest. Most of us doodle without even realizing it. A spiral while you’re on hold. Tiny flowers in the corner of a notebook. Random lines during a meeting that really could have been an email. It feels almost accidental. And that is exactly what makes doodling so powerful. It is simple, low pressure, and quietly good for your mental health.

So what exactly is doodling and how is it different from sketching

Doodling is spontaneous. It happens when your brain is half listening and half wandering, and your hand just wants to move. There is no plan, no end goal, and no pressure to make it look good.

Sketching is more intentional. You sit down to sketch. You observe, you think, you erase, you try again. Both have their place, but doodling is the one that sneaks into everyday life. It asks very little of you.

If sketching feels like a workout, doodling feels like a stretch.

What psychology says about doodling

Doodling might look like zoning out, but research suggests the opposite. In a well known study by psychologist Jackie Andrade, participants who doodled while listening to a dull message actually remembered more information than those who did not. The idea is that doodling keeps the brain gently engaged, which helps prevent the mind from drifting too far away.

Why doodling feels so comforting

There is a reason doodling feels calming, especially on difficult days.

It slows you down. Repeating shapes and lines can feel almost meditative.

It supports focus. Doodling gives restless thoughts somewhere to land.

It lets you express yourself gently. You can release emotions without needing words.

It boosts your mood. Even small creative actions can trigger feel good chemicals in the brain.

It interrupts overthinking. When your hands move, your thoughts often soften.

There are no rules. There are no expectations. Just marks on paper.

Simple doodle ideas to get started

If a blank page feels intimidating, try something small and easy.

Draw repeating shapes like circles, waves, or grids.

Create tiny faces showing different moods.

Let leaves, flowers, or vines grow across the page.

Play with abstract lines that overlap and connect.

Fill a page with a simple mandala or symmetrical pattern.

Draw a tiny moment from your day. Stick figures are more than enough.

Write a word or phrase and decorate it however you like.

Try not to plan too much. Let your hand lead the way.

Art materials you can use or ignore completely

One of the best things about doodling is how accessible it is. You do not need special supplies.

Any pen you already own works perfectly.

Pencils are great if you like softer lines or shading.

Colored pencils or markers can add a little joy.

Scrap paper, notebooks, or old journals are all fair game.

If you prefer digital tools, apps like Procreate or Fresco work beautifully.

The best tool is simply the one closest to you.

A gentle reminder

Doodling is not about talent. It is not about being productive or creating something impressive. It is a small, human way to care for your mind, especially when everything else feels loud.

So the next time you catch yourself making random marks on paper, let it happen. Your brain might be doing exactly what it needs.