Welcome to the first blog post on Beyond Dots. I’m excited to share not only my handmade tools but also the story behind how they came to be. Beyond Dots was born during a time of immense personal grief. In searching for ways to calm my mind and channel my emotions, I discovered the therapeutic power of dot painting and mandala art. I wanted to create something that could help others experience the same peace and healing that I found in these practices.
My tools were designed to make creating beautiful teardrop-shaped patterns easy, quick, and accurate, even for those who may not consider themselves “artists.” However, they are not intended to replace traditional dotting tools, but rather to complement them. These handmade tools round out any artist’s collection, providing an additional way to expand the possibilities of design and expression.
In this post, I invite you to explore how dot and mandala painting can be more than just a way to decorate a canvas or a rock. These art forms have the power to help heal from emotional pain, soothe an anxious mind, and bring peace to a busy heart—no matter your skill level.
Art has always been more than just a form of self-expression—it’s a way to heal. Dot painting and mandala art, in particular, offer a unique therapeutic experience. The repetitive, rhythmic act of creating dots and patterns has a calming effect on the mind, similar to meditation. As you focus on placing each dot, the stresses of everyday life begin to fade into the background, allowing space for peace and clarity to take root.
Scientific studies have shown that engaging in creative activities can lower levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. For example, a 2016 study published in the Journal of Art Therapy found that 45 minutes of creative activity significantly reduced cortisol levels in 75% of participants, regardless of their artistic experience. Another study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology noted that engaging in creative arts can promote well-being and emotional recovery by reducing stress and improving mood. For those who have experienced trauma or are dealing with anxiety, the structured and repetitive motions of dotting can provide a sense of control and calm. Mandalas, with their circular, balanced designs, have been used for centuries as a tool for meditation, allowing people to connect with a sense of harmony and wholeness.
Creating these patterns isn’t just about making something beautiful—it’s about giving your mind a break from the whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The act of focusing on each dot helps to bring you into the present moment, quieting the mind and allowing healing to happen naturally. Whether you’re using art as a way to cope with personal grief, anxiety, or simply the stresses of daily life, dot painting and mandalas can serve as a powerful tool for emotional well-being.
Children, like adults, can experience stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges, often without having the language to fully express their feelings. Art therapy has been shown to be an effective way for children to process emotions and reduce anxiety. Research suggests that creative activities, like drawing and painting, allow children to externalize their feelings and experiences in a safe and non-verbal way. By focusing on the process of creating, children are able to express their thoughts and emotions through art, helping them manage stress and improve their emotional health.
A 2017 study published in The Arts in Psychotherapy demonstrated that art therapy significantly reduced anxiety and improved overall mood in children. Specifically, the study found that children who participated in art therapy showed lower levels of cortisol after a session, indicating a reduction in stress. Similarly, art interventions in schools have shown positive outcomes in reducing behavioral problems and promoting emotional regulation in children.
For children dealing with trauma, emotional difficulties, or developmental challenges, dot painting and mandala art can be particularly effective. The structured, repetitive nature of these activities creates a sense of stability, helping children feel more grounded. The soothing process of focusing on simple patterns can also help improve concentration and foster a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem. Mandala art, with its emphasis on symmetry and balance, offers children a tangible way to restore a sense of calm and control in their lives.
By introducing children to dot painting and mandala art, parents, educators, and therapists can provide a valuable tool for emotional expression and healing. Not only does this practice encourage creativity, but it also supports mental well-being, offering children a peaceful escape from daily stressors.
My connection with art began in childhood, when I was gifted two coloring books filled with intricate, repeating geometric patterns. I became fascinated by the endless possibilities geometry offered, both on the page and in my freehand drawings. My love for creating extended beyond paper—whether I was sculpting or sketching, I found immense peace in being alone with my work, letting my imagination shape what unfolded before me. Art was, and continues to be, a source of calm and joy in my life.
As an adult, I’ve returned to art as a means of stability. Each time I sit down to create, I feel deeply connected to a creative source energy. While I often begin with a plan, I’ve learned to trust my intuition and follow where my creative instincts lead, even if it means deviating from my original outline. This openness to the process has resulted in some of my best work, allowing me to express myself more authentically. For me, dot painting and mandala art have become more than just a way to create something beautiful—they are a path to self-discovery and healing.
Whether you’re an experienced artist or just beginning your creative journey, I encourage you to explore these art forms with an open heart. The process is transformative, offering not just an opportunity to create, but to heal and grow.
Thanks,
Aaron
