Try using colored pencils or even paints if you want to add color. You can use a pencil to sketch out your design or go right in with markers. Trace a heart on paper, then divide it into two sections for the design you want to do. I do this often as I work.Colorful Heart Doodle - Image by Unique Art

I find that stepping back gives me a better perspective and helps me stop perseverating on small imperfections. Remember that anything repeated looks much more interesting, even if the lines aren’t “perfect.” Look closely, you’ll find imperfections in my art here. You deserve to enjoy both the process and the product.

As I often tell my art mentoring clients, part of the key is to give yourself the gift of time and permission to create. Experiment with keeping your lines close together so that you have to work carefully.Trace a cup or a bowl to create a large circle in the middle of your page – this will be your drawing space.Try this: Put on some relaxing music, grab some paper or your art journal, a gel pen, Sharpie, or ball point pen, and try one of the doodle ideas below. Of course I also do it when I’m feeling calm, simply for the enjoyment of making something. Even if you don’t see yourself as “artsy,” art has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain. If you just can’t believe that you are creative, check out this amazing talk with neuroscientist Rex Jung, a specialist in creativity, for the scientific low-down.Ĭareful, repetitive drawing is one of the main ways I use art to slow down my mind and body when I feel anxious or upset.

Whether you consider yourself creative or not, humans are creative by nature. Because we are all creative, when we feel out of balance, creative acts can help. This is where creative self-care comes in.

While brainless activity is sometimes important for letting go, when it’s your only go-to for winding down, it can make you feel more empty and bored than when you started. At the end of the day, you’re tired, you’re stressed, and it’s too easy to reach for a glass of wine, watch tv, or get caught up for hours on social media.

Fun doodles to do