10 Zentangle Benefits for Cancer Patients
As a brain tumor survivor, I want everyone I know to try meditative art. It’s fun, but there’s even more to it. I mean, if oncology nurses reported Zentangle’s a good stress reliever in a pilot study, there must be Zentangle benefits for cancer patients too. And what about caregivers? Maybe we all need a little Zentangle in our lives.
Calms Anxiety
Focusing on learning new Zentangle patterns is a way to take a break from worry. You deserve that respite, and when you Zentangle your mind just naturally drifts away from the things that cause you to dwell on your anxietes.
Distracts from the Pain
No matter if your pain is caused by the cancer itself or the treatment, concentrating on your Zentangle can distract from the stuff that hurts. Giving you something pleasing to focus on is one of the greatest benefits of Zentangle.
Passes Time
Having cancer can be lonely. Sometimes you just need to pass the time and Zentangling is a great way to do that. Plus at the end you have something nice to look at that you created. You can hang on to your art, or you can give it away.
Increases Gratitude
Taking a little time to appreciate our supplies—and the practice of Zentangle itself—is good for the soul. It’s easy to get caught up thinking about how terrible everything is while forgetting the good stuff is still there too.
Strengthens Family Bonds
Like a tabletop game, Zentangle gives you the opportunity to bond with the ones you love. When you’re done you can appreciate what each of you have created and there’s no age limit—kids, parents, and grandparents can all participate.
Connects You with Patients
If you’re looking for something social to do at the infusion clinic, why not try Zentangle? You can learn new patterns or try a YouTube tutorial while you wait on that IV bag to empty.
Reduces Stress
Every part of having cancer is stressful. From commuting to treatments to wondering how you’re going to pay the bills, Zentangle can give you a break from all of that. It’s like, as the book is aptly titled, Yoga for Your Brain.
Provides Enjoyment
Drawing and doodling are two very therapeutic and enjoyable activities. The brain naturally relaxes when you do something creative like Zentangle.
Flexes Creativity
The human brain needs to be creative, but cancer fatigue and chemo brain can make that difficult. Zentangle doesn’t require elaborate sketching or planning. You just go with it and see where each Zentangle pattern takes you.
Combats Insomnia
Whether your meds, the nausea, or the worry are keeping you up at night, you can occupy your time with meditative art. And because you don’t need an elaborate studio or fancy supplies, you can Zentangle in bed or from the comfort of your favorite chair.
I’m a huge fan of Zentangle obviously, and I recommend it to almost everyone I know. It’s great for cancer patients or anyone who needs a little break from the stress of life.
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Free videos: 9 Easy Zentangle Patterns