Sounds a bit strange, right? But that’s exactly what Cindy Bayles explores in her book, “Doodle Healing: A Fun, Easy, and Effective Strategy to Design a Life of Joy, Self-Compassion, & Purpose.”
Most of us think of doodling as something we do when we’re bored—scribbling in the margins of a notebook during a meeting or while talking on the phone. But Cindy shows us that doodling can be so much more than just idle fun. It can actually be a powerful way to connect with ourselves, reduce stress, and find clarity.
What’s great about Cindy’s approach is that it’s super accessible. You don’t need to be an artist, and you don’t need any special tools. Just grab a pen and some paper, and you’re good to go. Cindy walks you through simple, step-by-step doodling exercises that anyone can do. The idea is to let go of the need to create something perfect and just enjoy the process of creating. It’s about having fun and being kind to yourself, not about making a masterpiece.
As you doodle, you start to notice things. Maybe you feel a bit lighter, a bit happier. Maybe you start to see patterns in your doodles that reflect what’s going on in your life. It’s a way to express yourself without words and to tap into feelings and thoughts you might not even realize you have. Each doodle becomes a way to explore joy, practice self-compassion, and discover what really matters to you.
Beyond just feeling good in the moment, doodling can help you find your purpose. When you doodle, you’re opening a door to your subconscious and might start to uncover passions and dreams that have been hiding under the surface. It’s a gentle, enjoyable way to explore who you are and what you want from life.
So, why not give it a try? Pick up a pen, start doodling, and see where it takes you. With Cindy Bayles as your guide, you’ll find that the journey to a more joyful, compassionate, and purposeful life can be as simple—and as fun—as a few doodles on a page.
