Universal Vibrations Corner

Unlock inner peace through simple art-making, cultivating a still mind. Explore the path to tranquility by mindfully creating, finding harmony in doodles, and serenity in each stroke of pen or brush. (Mindful creative tips with affiliate marketing links.)

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In this article, we’ll delve into the realm of creative artistry, regardless of your current skill level. We’ll explore the process of meditative mark-making to produce artwork characterized by serene scribbles. This method entails a specific approach to completing the artwork, compelling you to concentrate solely on the task at hand. As a result, you’re compelled to set aside your worries and focus entirely on the present moment. By engaging in this artistic practice, you liberate yourself from the stress and anxiety induced by your thoughts, which may hinder your ability to manifest your desires and even impact your health. Join us on an artistic journey that promises to unburden your mind and pave the way for miracles simply by shifting your focus away from your troubles and towards the creative process.

Art History information about this style of art:

” Joy of Zentangle” https://amzn.to/3TOAQXo , “The Great Zentangle Book” https://amzn.to/3vfxO56 and lastly “Zentangle Primer Vol 1” https://amzn.to/49qE6gh

This process is alot like working Zentangles. Zentangle, an art form renowned for its meditative qualities, was developed by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas. The concept emerged in the early 2000s when Maria, a calligrapher, discovered the calming effects of drawing repetitive patterns. Inspired by her experience, Maria collaborated with Rick, a former Buddhist monk, to refine the practice into a structured method accessible to all. They coined the term “Zentangle” as a fusion of “zen,” reflecting the mindfulness of the practice, and “tangle,” representing the intricate, interwoven patterns created. Since its inception, Zentangle has gained popularity worldwide as a therapeutic and creative outlet, empowering individuals to cultivate focus, relaxation, and artistic expression through deliberate, mindful drawing.

Why is achieving a meditative state of mind important?

During meditation, individuals often experience changes in their brainwave patterns. One common pattern associated with meditation is the increase in alpha brainwave activity. Alpha waves are typically present when the mind is relaxed but alert. As individuals deepen their meditation practice, they may also enter states characterized by theta and delta brainwaves, which are associated with deep relaxation and sleep, respectively.

Achieving these states of mind during meditation offers several benefits:

1. Stress Reduction: Meditation promotes relaxation, which can help reduce levels of stress hormones like cortisol. This, in turn, leads to a calmer, more balanced state of mind.
2. Improved Focus and Attention: Regular meditation practice has been shown to enhance concentration and attention span, allowing individuals to stay focused on tasks for longer periods.
3. Enhanced Emotional Well-being: Meditation can foster emotional resilience and regulate mood by promoting a sense of inner peace and tranquility.
4. Better Sleep: The relaxation induced by meditation can improve sleep quality and help alleviate insomnia or sleep disturbances.
5. Increased Creativity: Some research suggests that meditation stimulates creative thinking by fostering a relaxed, open mindset conducive to generating new ideas.
6. Mind-Body Connection: Meditation encourages awareness of bodily sensations, promoting a deeper connection between the mind and body and enhancing overall well-being.

Overall, the benefits of achieving a meditative state extend beyond the duration of the practice, positively impacting various aspects of physical, emotional, and mental health.

Benefits of this art project:
Participating in this art project offers a unique set of advantages, especially for those who struggle to stay awake during traditional meditation sessions. Honestly, every time I’ve attended a meditation class, I’ve ended up dozing off. The embarrassment of being caught snoring loudly adds another layer to the already less-than-ideal meditation experience. It’s a true story, and I’ve found it difficult to face my fellow “hippy friends” afterward.

How to do this art project:
First and foremost, you have the freedom to choose what to draw using this process, or you can opt to keep it entirely abstract and expressive. Let’s begin with the latter approach. However, before we commence, let’s gather a few basic supplies. This project can be monochromatic, meaning you’ll only need a blank piece of paper and an ink pen. Of course, if you prefer, you can incorporate multiple colors, but ensure your markers or pens are fine-pointed. We won’t be starting with graphite pencil; the objective is to focus so intensely that making mistakes becomes inconceivable. With a pencil, the ability to erase would disrupt the flow of decision-making crucial to achieving the meditative state essential for this particular artistic process.

Starting with the freeform abstract method:
With our art materials assembled, it’s time to begin. Starting with the freeform abstract method, find a comfortable position. Choose whether you’ll work in portrait or landscape orientation and position your paper accordingly. Then, using a black marker or pen, draw a continuous, flowing line that delineates various areas. Keep the shapes organic and ensure they’re no smaller than half the size of an adult’s palm.

The mindful marks you’ll create consist of repeating patterns, which can be either organic or inorganic/geometric. Choose a single pattern for each section, keeping it monochromatic if you’re opting for a multicolor project. Remember, the entire project can be monochromatic. Place the pattern mindfully, neatly, and close together, as it’s meant to take time and become repetitive to help you enter the “zone.” Once a section is filled, move on to the next one and use a different pattern. Avoid repeating a pattern within the same section to add variety and interest to the artwork.

Remember to Breathe, Why is this important?

The crucial aspect of this process is to always remember to breathe. It’s not meant to induce stress, even though it’s not solely focused on breath like meditation. Here are some benefits of conscious breathing:

1. Reduces stress and anxiety levels.
2. Increases oxygen flow to the brain, improving cognitive function.
3. Enhances emotional regulation and mood stability.
4. Promotes relaxation and calms the nervous system.
5. Improves focus, concentration, and mindfulness.
6. Supports better sleep quality and overall well-being.
   Align your breathing with the rhythm of each pattern’s completion. Keep in mind our goal of achieving peace and tranquility. Integrating rhythmic breathing will aid in attaining the desired state of mind.

Okay, let’s embark on creating a work of art featuring an object we wish to draw.

I can already hear some of you saying, “But I can’t draw,” or “I’m not good at art.” In the South, we have a saying for that, “Well, bless your heart!”. But don’t worry, if you follow my process, you can draw anything.
This technique is called TRACING! You can trace an image you like from the computer. To do so, start by searching the web with the words “Line Drawing of..” to ensure clarity. Carefully trace the image on the computer screen using a piece of paper and a graphite pencil. Alternatively, if you have a printer, you can print out your desired image as a line drawing. Then, tape the image to a window or sliding glass door on a sunny day, followed by taping your blank paper on top to create a homemade light board. If the computer image you start with has mistakes, correct them, outline your final design, and then tape it to the window or sliding glass door. Tape your blank paper on top to trace, and voilà!

Ensure that your drawing has multiple sections to fill in. Whether organic or geometric, the size matters. Each section should be no smaller than two fingers in width and length, and no larger than half the size of an adult’s palm. Once you’ve determined what you want to fill in, follow the same process as before. Make decisions about patterns and whether to use one color or multiple colors. Now, I’d like to emphasize the importance of working with intention.

Working with intention, making art with more meaning.

If you search for “Zentangles,” patterns, or geometric shapes online, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to explore. You might gravitate towards shapes that resonate with you naturally or patterns that match your skill level. Consider shifting your focus to patterns with deeper meanings, perhaps leaning towards positivity or prosperity. For instance, I often incorporate symbols of various currencies in my work to symbolize the importance of prosperity in my life. I envision my artwork reaching global markets, which is why I incorporate various currencies. Additionally, I imbue my pieces with initial imagery that holds positive connotations, such as pumpkins. In Native American culture, pumpkins symbolize a vital food source capable of sustaining families through harsh winters when properly stored. In my contemporary context, decorative pumpkins serve as seasonal adornments, though their acquisition depends on my financial stability. There was a period when I could only afford essentials for my family, foregoing luxuries like pumpkin-themed decorations. This made my love for pumpkin decor particularly challenging during those times.

Imagine you’re sketching out plans for a flower garden; incorporate flowers into your imagery. If your aspiration is to become a first-time homeowner, opt for symbols suggestive of that goal. Perhaps horses ignite your passion, and you dream of attending the Kentucky Derby; then, let horses inspire your creations. Their flowing manes, divided into distinct visual segments, offer an ideal subject for mindful strokes and serene patterns. Engage your imagination to conjure the images you wish to work with, imbuing them with significance. This infusion of meaning is paramount when harnessing art as a tool with intention.

Time passes without difficulty when engaged in this art form.

Remember, dear reader, that time flows effortlessly when immersed in this art form. If you find your thoughts racing or stuck on draining energy, grab your favorite art supplies and create mindfully, crafting beauWhen I finish creating images like these in public, I often receive predominantly positive comments, not that I am seeking validation. However, I have noticed one common theme: “That is beautiful, I would never have the patience to do something like that.” Bless their hearts. They may not realize how straightforward the process truly is, nor comprehend the mystical energy involved. But we do, so even if you initially struggle to maintain focus during this kind of process, persevere. Your concentration and patience will develop over time. The concentrated energy involved in this process, as discussed earlier, not only revitalizes your mind but also enhances your ability to manifest your dreams and goals. So, make it a priority to carve out time for creativity whenever possible, and experience the transformative power of these serene patterns that invoke transcendent tranquility.

Oh, one last thing:

When I finish creating images like these in public, I often receive predominantly positive comments, not that I am seeking validation. However, I have noticed one common theme: “That is beautiful, I would never have the patience to do something like that.” Bless their hearts. They may not realize how straightforward the process truly is, nor comprehend the mystical energy involved. But we do, so even if you initially struggle to maintain focus during this kind of process, persevere. Your concentration and patience will develop over time.