I’m pretty certain you’ve seen them in bookstores, online or you’re already a fan of them yourself: Adult Coloring Books!
As a kid (and frankly as an adult too… I mean, what’s the difference? #embraceyourinnerchild) I love(d) all things creative. Crafting and, coloring was amongst those beloved activities. I even remember winning a coloring competition at our local supermarket once. Oh boy, I was as proud as a peacock. I recollect winning a HUGE bag full of candy. (My poor mom lol).
Memories aside, coloring is something I really enjoyed. So why did I stop? What happened? Life? Or maybe there just wasn’t the right stimulus… coloring pages that not only level up to our mental, emotional, or spiritual interests as adults but also challenge us motorically?
So to whoever reintroduced Coloring Books to us older kids, kudos to you! The variety in themes of adult coloring books is endless and inspiring nowadays… I’m very pleased to see ”adult coloring books” create a platform for millions of people to outlet themselves artistically. But there is more to it…
(OH shhhhhh…. I also have A GREAT and creativity sparkling little gift for you at the end of this post ^_^)
Color yourself to a better version of yourself
Ok, that’s quite a statement. But one I’m not weary to state.
* MINI-ANNOUNCEMENT* Recently I completed designing a Nomadsoulzz Exclusive coloring book (omg, can’t wait to share with you all very very soon!!) and I gifted the book to a couple of friends to proofcolor. The response has been overwhelming humbling, but let me quote one of the messages I received from my dear friend and family member Maria:
”Coloring helps me relax and to create room in my mind.”
WOW! That’s AMAZING!
What I’m trying to say… is that coloring isn’t just any other ”activity”. It’s so much more if you allow it to be, it’s therapeutic… It’s meditative. And that’s exactly why I’m convinced that adult coloring isn’t just a trend, just like yoga isn’t a trend. And likewise, just like yoga is/can be part of your self-care interests so can adult coloring be.
That brings me to:
Voila, here are some of the magical benefits and advantages of adult coloring as a self-care activity
1 It both relaxes ánd trains the brain
Let’s start off with an interesting fact: coloring needs both hemispheres of the brain to stay focused. In addition, this enables the different areas of the brain to work in a balanced way. Intricate designs furthermore require both analytical and creative parts of the brain, which in turn results in improved problem-solving skills, better focus, refined motor skills (and more!)
By focussing on the coloring alone, we enter a state similar to that of meditation, which not surprisingly relaxes the colorer (aka you). Color away and a gentle feeling of calmness will fill up your space and you stabilize emotionally.
2 Encourages Positive Thinking
In the introduction of this post, I let myself reminisce about childhood memories of coloring. And that seems to be a very natural process we all go through when we actively and dedicated color. In other words, when we color we bring out our inner child. I already knew this from personal experience, but from time to time it’s great when science reaffirms.
One of the studies I’m referring to is ”Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, ”. They even state that coloring temporarily prevents colorists from continuing their “inner dialogue and to deeply engage in an activity that removes them from the flow of negative thoughts and emotions that can sometimes dominate their lives”.
The longer-term benefits are limitless. By breaking negative thought patterns, by recalling and reintroducing positive ones whilst coloring helps adults to become better persons by loving themselves more. It also boosts self-confidence and helps you face the challenges of this world.
Another great method to encourage positive thinking is by practicing positive affirmations. This list with a selection of blasting self-love affirmations is a great place to start!
3 Enhances Mindfulness
”By removing ourselves as the focal point for our thoughts, we become immersed in what we are doing in the present moment. When this is accomplished, coloring becomes very much like a mindfulness exercise.”
When coloring, you have some form of outward-directed attention connecting you to that present moment. Taking in the activity of coloring fully (without distractions) is similar to any other mindfulness practice where you focus on the present moment.
Indulging in mindfulness activities has proven to decrease stress levels and boost gratitude. All in all, a lifestyle choice that should be warmly welcomed by anyone who desires a full, meaningful and healthy life.
4 Sparks Creativity
Although this might be needless to say when talking about coloring, I’m still mentioning it. Why?
Because I believe we should embrace our inner creativity more.
It’s such a beautiful quality we have as humans. It allows us to think out of the box, to solve problems unconventionally, to be kinder to the planet (by creatively re-using or recycling). Giving your creativity space to bloom is igniting your confidence to radiate. Expression knows so many forms, who said words are the only way to go? Not me!
Besides all the above, coloring isn’t about staying in the lines. It’s about color and quality composition, it’s about your association, it’s about motor practice– it requires focus, choices, expression.
So yes, adult coloring sparks creativity. And what creativity sparks… is truly infinite.
5 Coloring is Easy on the Pocketbook
Or in other words, coloring is a very low-cost activity. Once you’ve invested in a coloring book and some coloring gear, you good for weeks on end. Coloring (for adults) is time-consuming, however, you can do it whenever it suits YOU! Each page gifts you with its own personal journey.
The attention and energy you put into it you receive back in peace of mind, self-love, self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment.
In case you’d like some more great ideas: check out this go-to list of 50 Dirt-Cheap & Free Self-Care Ideas!
Celebrate the Mindful Inclusiveness
Isn’t it precious how we can celebrate so many forms of love with something as innocent as coloring?
In the end its great that coloring brings along so many benefits, but most importantly, does it make you happy?
Imagine a collection of freshly sharpened colored pencils or a box filled with all shades of markers. An inspiring, uncolored image, ready to be brought to life by your imagination. There, ready to express a part of you, ready to heal and calm you. Visualize the artwork you made and connect with the feeling of fulfillment, of peace. How does it make you feel?
*sigh* Already feel like coloring?
