Calligraphy as a Mindful Practice

“Our goal is not to battle with the mind, but to witness it” Swami Muktananda

Mindful practice refers to engaging in an activity with full awareness and presence, paying close attention to the present moment without judgment.

It involves being fully immersed in the task at hand, acknowledging thoughts and feelings as they arise, but letting them pass without becoming attached to them. 

Mindful practice can be applied to various activities such as meditation, yoga, art, calligraphy, music, sports, and even daily routines like eating or walking. The goal is to cultivate a state of mindfulness, which has been associated with numerous benefits including reduced stress, improved focus, enhanced emotional regulation, and greater overall well-being.

Write Here, Write Now

In 2012, I started to practice calligraphy every morning for one hour before opening my laptop. It became a form of meditation, just for me and for my own professional and personal development.

More than a decade later, it’s still a mindful practice alongside yoga and traditional meditation. Sometimes, repeating the same messages turns into a mantra where my mind quiets down, and I get into the zone.

Creative Mental Health

Calligraphy requires your full attention. By being fully present on the page, your mind slowly quiets down. Your breathing deepens, helping your body to relax. And before you know it, half an hour has gone by. It is a creative and mindful activity where you enjoy the process while meditating on the page. Your inner and outer progress becomes your inspiration.

One of my favourite topics is creative mental health and my number one recommendation for you is “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert. It’s light, funny, and at the same time has made me deeply reflect on my relationship with creativity. If you enjoy Big Magic, the following book for you is “The Artist Way” by Julia Cameron. Here is a great interview with both artists.