Doodling helps concentration by filling gaps in thought, aiding memory recall, and reducing stress levels.
Doodling isn't just idle scribbling; it serves several cognitive functions that can significantly boost focus and concentration. It acts as a mechanism to keep the mind engaged just enough to prevent it from wandering completely, without overloading it.
The Cognitive Benefits of Doodling
Based on research, doodling contributes to improved concentration through specific processes:
- Bridging Thought Gaps: Doodling is described as a way to "fill in the gaps in your thought processes and glue these processes together." This suggests that the act of drawing can help maintain a continuous mental flow, preventing the mind from becoming completely distracted or bored during passive listening or tasks requiring sustained attention.
- Enhancing Memory Recall: The reference states that doodling "locates lost memories and brings them back during active recall." This implies a connection between the physical act of doodling and the brain's ability to access stored information, making it a useful tool when trying to remember details or information.
- Reducing Stress: Doodling also improves focus by "lowering cortisol levels which decreases stress (Roberts)." Cortisol is known as the stress hormone. By reducing its levels, doodling helps create a calmer mental state. With less stress, it becomes much easier to focus on the task at hand, as the mind is not preoccupied with anxiety or tension.
Practical Implications
Incorporating doodling into situations where concentration is needed, such as meetings, lectures, or long phone calls, can be beneficial. It provides a non-disruptive outlet for restless energy and helps maintain mental presence.
Here are some ways doodling can be practically applied:
- During Lectures or Meetings: Instead of mind-wandering, subtle doodling can keep you engaged with the speaker's content.
- While Listening to Audio: Whether it's a podcast or a lengthy explanation, doodling can anchor your attention.
- Studying: Doodling related to the topic or just abstract shapes can help process and retain information.
By engaging these cognitive and physiological mechanisms – bridging thought gaps, aiding memory, and specifically lowering stress via cortisol reduction – doodling serves as a simple yet effective technique to enhance concentration.
