Zentangle Method background and research
Delve deeper into the emerging background and research to look at its impact on mental well-being. This method of tangling can offer significant benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing focus and self-expression.
Effects of Zentangle on Older Adults’ Anxiety, Happiness, and Dexterity
... "may be of benefit either as a standalone activity or a non-pharmacological addition to mental health treatment. While the Zentangle course did not improve fine motor skills as expected, the significant deterioration of the control group suggests a potential protective effect given the known gradual decline in older adults’ fine motor skills. It is possible the workshop may have served as motor skills practice for participants."
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Women's Brain Health Initiative
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Women's Brain Health Initiative reports that Zentangle Method not only reduces stress and anxiety but also enhances focus, creativity, and self-confidence. It's a practice that yields benefits quickly, sometimes even after just one session. It is the process that matters more than the end product. The main goal is to help you relax, reduce stress, and reach a mindful state.
Effects on Affective Well-Being:
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A pilot randomised controlled trial conducted by Chung et al. (2022) focused on the immediate and two-week post-intervention effects of Zentangle on affective well-being in the general population. This study involved participants engaging in a two-hour Zentangle class led by a certified teacher, followed by encouraged practice for two weeks. The findings indicated significant reductions in negative affect in the Zentangle group compared to the control group, both immediately and two weeks post-intervention. Furthermore, participants who practiced Zentangle for more than 80 minutes per week experienced significant reductions in anxiety symptoms and improvements in self-compassion​ (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35943847/)
​Benefits for Healthcare Workers:
See an abstract from this study
A study aimed at promoting the physical and mental health of rural healthcare workers through Zentangle art-based intervention revealed positive outcomes. This quasi-experimental pilot study found that participating in Zentangle art workshops effectively relieved stress, reduced workplace stress and frustration, enhanced self-efficacy, and increased commitment to work among healthcare workers. The study highlighted the ability of Zentangle art to provide employees with multiple channels for expressing emotions, ultimately improving their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being​​. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34274696/)
Calm Down and Get Your Zentangle on
A blog post by Malchiodi (2014) in Psychology Today
This blog post in Psychology Tody explains the theory and approach of Zentangle and how it differs from doodling. The author also discussed how Zentangle can be calming and self-soothing, as well as enhance mindfulness meditation. The author cited some of the preliminary research on the Zentangle process that indicated that it has measurable relaxation benefits, especially if one accepts the process as one with no expected outcome other than the enjoyment of putting the pen to paper and staying open to whatever emerges. (A blog post by Malchiodi (2014) in Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/arts-and-health/201403/calm-down-and-get-your-zentangle)
Studies and stories on Zentangle.com's website
Check out Zentangle's webpage
When Rick and Maria discovered this way of drawing,, they expected the Zentangle Method to increase creativity, focus and self-confidence but what they have found over the years is that it reaches far beyond their original expectations.They have shared stories and studies about the many benefits of The Zentangle Method and how it is being used all over the globe. https://zentangle.com/pages/studies-and-stories