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Uses

Zentangle’s application and use is widespread, and we continue to learn of new ways in which others are using Zentangle.

Entertainment
Zentangles are fun to do. They are mesmerizing. You can create them alone or with a group. You can create a game with them by randomly selecting tangles, or by creating collaborative Zentangles. Unlike games with predetermined outcomes like crossword puzzles or Sudoku, you discover your own outcomes.

Relaxation
We all need to relax from stress now and then. Zentangle offers a quick way to intentionally redirect your focus and enter a relaxed state almost immediately. It does not require a practiced physical discipline as in yoga. It does not require a uniform, location or equipment to relax.

Education
At all age levels, whether in public, private or home school environments, Zentangle can improve:

  • Handwriting
  • Eye/hand coordination
  • Creativity and personal expression
  • Problem solving
  • Cross-cultural understanding, using various cultural symbols such as Indian henna patterns, Celtic knotting, Zuni pottery, Maori tattoos or Islamic tiling.
  • Relaxation and focus

Motivational Training
With its metaphor-rich philosophical base, Zentangle is being used to improve self-esteem and supports individual confidence, creativity and cooperation in team efforts. Zentangle exercises have been directed to areas such as:

  • Individual self-worth
  • Problem solving
  • Individual’s role within a team
  • Intentionally directing focus under stress
  • Accessing inner knowledge and guidance
  • Anger management

Artistic
Many people who have artistic talent put aside their aspirations due to time and money constraints. Zentangle answers both of these concerns by being accessible and inexpensive. For people who are convinced they can’t draw, Zentangle removes that barrier as well. Zentangle’s method also removes any intimidation of facing a blank sheet of paper. With Zentangle, a novice’s work can be put next to a pro’s work and fit right in. Within its elegance of limits, Zentangle draws from a rich well of our human experience. Zentangle provides a simple, accessible method to allow personal creativity to flow. With Zentangle, all who try it discover they are artists.

Collectibles
Your Zentangle is a dream that doesn’t fade. You may create something in your Zentangle that is not immediately obvious. Later, upon reflection, its meaning may appear with great clarity. Make an album of your tiles. It is very uplifting to review a collection of Zentangles you have created. This can often yield valuable personal insights. Frame your favorite tiles in our specially designed mats and frames, either singly or in groups. Great for your own space or as a gift.

Gifts
Use your Zentangles instead of greeting cards. What better way to express feelings that are beyond words, than by giving a Zentangle? (If you can possibly manage to part with yours.)

Study Groups
Zentangle has a rich symbolism and philosophy. Zentangle provides an excellent discussion base for study groups and group facilitators.

Therapy
Whether self-directed or in a clinical setting, Zentangle provides a non-verbal modality for feedback, journalling, reflection and analysis, personal growth and increased confidence. Some applications include:

  • Addictions
  • Attention deficit
  • Self-esteem
  • Anger management
  • Stress management
  • Equivalent of a self-created Rorschach test
  • Stroke recovery
  • Symbolic journalling

See for yourself: register for one of the upcoming Zentangle classes in the sidebar on the right of this page OR  contact me to schedule a class for your own private group!