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Effects of Mandala Coloring on Alpha Brain Activity and Anxiety Symptoms among Students at Universiti Sains Malaysia:
Background:
University students commonly experience stress and anxiety, which can negatively affect their academic performance. Mandala coloring has gained attention as a therapeutic art-based activity that may help alleviate symptoms of anxiety. Changes in brain activity, particularly in the alpha power, are known to reflect psychological states and responses to interventions.
Aim:
This study investigated the effects of mandala coloring on alpha brain activity and anxiety symptoms among students at Universiti Sains Malaysia.
Methods:
In a randomized experimental study, sixty students aged 18 to 25 years (M=22.97, SD=1.03) with moderate to high anxiety levels were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n=30), which colored a geometric mandala for 20 minutes, or a control group (n=30), which colored a blank circle. Brain activity was recorded using electroencephalography (EEG), and anxiety levels were assessed before and after the session using the Malay version of the Beck Anxiety Inventory. Data were analyzed using a mixed-design analysis of variance (ANOVA) with group (intervention vs. control) as the between-subjects factor, and time and brain regions as the within-subjects factor.
Results:
Both groups showed reductions in anxiety symptoms over time, with no significant differences between groups (F(1; 56)=0.03, p=0.87). However, EEG changes across brain regions differed between groups, with mandala coloring leading to increased frontal alpha power (F(3; 156)=3.21, p=0.03).
Conclusion:
Mandala coloring was associated with increased frontal alpha power, suggesting enhanced relaxation and focused attention. Anxiety symptoms decreased in both coloring groups, indicating that coloring in general may support emotional regulation and well-being. Taken together, these findings suggest that coloring-based activities may serve as useful therapeutic tools for reducing anxiety and improving focus among university students.
