Relax…Try Zentangle

The “Zentangle method” is a combination of artistic expression, mindfulness, and stress relief.

It’s supposed to be meditative in nature and appeal to those "seeking a break from the chaos of daily life."

When I first looked at picture of a zentangle it looked like chaos to me. But I’m drawn to this activity for I’ve discovered that it is calming… much like the yoga classes that I love.

The zentangle patterns are drawn on small tiles of paper using a fine-tip pen.

I love using felt-tip pens (in assorted colors) and find myself scribbling squares, circles, ideas - anything that comes to mind on little pieces of paper - as I’m thinking. And there’s no erasing, which means I’m forced to accept my imperfections.

It’s comforting to know that what I’ve been doing for years has a name and a process!
I create zentangle patterns (I thought I was doodling) while I’m listening to podcasts, webinars, or long phone calls, as a way of staying focused on the information or conversation, as I’m anxious to find important nuggets of wisdom to make the time spent worthwhile.

“Zentangle art” doesn’t aim to represent real-world objects. It’s abstract designs, which eliminates the pressure to “get things right.”

It’s called meditation because it’s calming and focused. Drawing tangles requires just enough attention to keep the mind occupied but not overwhelmed, which helps make it a relaxation technique.

And why should you care?

1. Stress Relief
   Our world is filled with stressful situations and unkind people. Use zentangle as a form of creative mindfulness that can help reduce anxiety and promote some relaxation.

   The repetitive, simple patterns we create can encourage a state of calm. Try it while forced to participate in boring webinars! It requires no prior art experience or specialized equipment.

   All you need is a piece of paper, a pen, and a willingness to engage in the process. This makes it accessible to anyone, regardless of artistic skill or background.

   And since there is no “right” or “wrong” way to create a tangle, it encourages confidence in our own artistic expression.

2. Improves Focus and Concentration
   For those of us struggling with attention issues or just needing a break from multitasking, zentangle offers a way to practice sustained focus in a peaceful manner in the midst of the chaos around us. We create a sense of control over our space. We can process our thoughts and express our emotions in a non-verbal, safe way.
3. Inexpensive
   Zentangle can be done anywhere, at any time. We can incorporate it into our any daily routine - commuting, waiting, in meetings, just thinking.

   Use pen and paper and start creating lines, circles, squares, whatever shapes come to mind at the moment.

   Let clam and relaxation surround your whole being!