Doodle vs Mandala: Difference and Comparison

Key Takeaways

  1. Doodles are perceived as random drawings scrawled absent-mindedly in the margins of notebooks during boring lectures.
  2. Mandalas are intricate and symmetrical geometric designs that have captivated humanity’s imagination for centuries.
  3. Doodling can be spontaneous and reflects the current state of mind, while mandalas are used intentionally for therapeutic purposes such as meditation and self-exploration.

What is Doodle?

Doodles are perceived as random; simple drawings are scrawled absent-mindedly in notebooks’ margins during boring lectures. However, beneath their seemingly haphazard nature lies a world of creativity waiting to be explored.

Doodling involves sketching unconscious or spontaneous drawings while a person’s attention is otherwise engaged. It can take various forms, from abstract patterns to intricate designs and even representational figures. They serve a more profound purpose as they provide an outlet for creativity and a way to engage the mind productively.

Doodling is not a recent phenomenon; it has been a part of human expression for centuries. Doodling also promotes relaxation and stress reduction by allowing the mind to wander freely, offering a break from the rigors of daily life.

What is Mandala?

Mandalas are intricate and symmetrical geometric designs that have captured humanity’s imagination for centuries. These circular artworks, associated with spirituality and meditation, offer a profound glimpse into the quest for inner peace and self-discovery.

The term ‘Mandala’ originates from the ancient Indian language of Sanskrit, where it means circle. Mandalas are more than mere circles; they represent the universe, wholeness, and unity. They serve as a visual metaphor for the interconnectedness of all things.

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One of the most iconic uses of mandalas is in Hindu and Buddhist religious practices. They are meticulously created in sand, stone, or intricate paintings, each design layer symbolizing different aspects of the spiritual journey. Mandalas guide meditation, helping practitioners focus their thoughts and find inner calm amidst the world’s chaos.

The allure of mandalas also extends to the world of art and design. Many artists create stunning mandala patterns, exploring the infinite possibilities within their structured form.

Difference Between Doodle and Mandala

  1. Doodles are spontaneous and unplanned, created with a specific purpose, while mandalas are intentional and carry a spiritual or meditative meaning.
  2. Doodling is a universal human activity with no specific cultural or historical ties, while mandalas have deep and cultural roots, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism.
  3. Doodling can be spontaneous and reflects the current state of mind, while mandalas are used intentionally for therapeutic purposes such as meditation and self-exploration.
  4. Doodling remains a common form of self-expression, but it has also evolved into digital art and can be found in graffiti, illustrations, and more. At the same time, mandalas continue to be used in spiritual and therapeutic sessions and are also popular as decorative elements in art, jewelry, and interior design.
  5. Doodles can spontaneously express one’s current emotions, whether it’s anxiety, boredom, happiness, or other feelings. At the same time, mandalas are created with a focus on achieving emotional balance and inner harmony, making them a tool for self-regulation and meditation.

Comparison Between Doodle and Mandala

ParametersDoodleMandala
PurposeSpontaneous and unplanned, created with a specific purposeIntentional and carry a spiritual or meditative purpose
Historical and Cultural SignificanceUniversal human activity with no cultural significanceDeep cultural roots, particularly in Hinduism and Buddhism
Psychological AspectsReflects the current state of mindUsed for therapeutic purposes such as self-exploration and meditation
Contemporary ApplicationCommon form of self-expressionUsed in spiritual and therapeutic sessions
Emotional ExpressionSpontaneous way to express one’s emotionsFocus on achieving emotional balance and inner harmony
References
  1. https://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=dayton1628207967015306
  2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S019745561630171X
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Last Updated : 23 January, 2024

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