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Coloring books are often seen as something that’s only meant for kids. However, over the years, adult coloring books have become increasingly popular. These books are designed to help adults de-stress and relax by providing an outlet for creativity. While it may seem like a simple activity, incorporating coloring books into your self care routine can have numerous benefits for your mental and emotional well-being. Here are just a few reasons why coloring books for adults should be a part of your self-care routine:
There Are Psychological Benefits to Adult Coloring
Adult coloring like gardening and reading is a hobby that you can take up to improve your personal well-being. In her article posted on Huffpost.com titled, Dr. Nikki Martinez explained some of the benefits of adult coloring. According to her, adult coloring can help to re-focus our attention away from distressing thoughts, provide a positive distraction from negative habits, enable mindful contact with the present moment, and give the brain some much-needed time for rest and relaxation. Dr.Martinez, even jokes about the reaction from her clients when she suggests adult coloring books to them. However, she later admits that the same clients would later thank her for it.
How coloring improves Your Psychological Well Being
How it works is that coloring transports us back to simpler times. The times of childhood joy when we had no responsibilities and not a care in the world. Incorporating coloring into your self care routine gives you a temporary time-out from the stresses of adult life. It helps you to reconnect with the carefree part of yourself. Dr, Martinez also mentioned that adult coloring helps to calm the amygdala which is the part of the brain associated with stress reactions and anxiety. This in turn helps you to focus and concentrate on one thing. As you color, you may find that your breathing slows down and your heart rate decreases, allowing you to feel more relaxed and at ease.
Coloring promotes mindfulness
Coloring is a form of mindfulness practice, which makes it a perfect self care day activity. It helps to promote mindfulness as it helps you to become more present in the moment. By focusing your attention on the coloring page, you can tune out distractions and bring your awareness to the present moment. This can help you feel more grounded and centered, reducing feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Coloring can be a form of self-expression
Coloring is a creative outlet that allows you to express yourself in a non-verbal way. You can tap into your intuition and inner wisdom by choosing colors and patterns that resonate with you. This can help you gain insights into your emotions and thoughts, and provide a sense of release and catharsis.
Coloring is a low-cost, low-maintenance activity
One of the great things about coloring books is that they are inexpensive and require minimal supplies. You can purchase coloring books on amazon for as low as $7.95, or you can support small businesses and buy the coloring pages for as low as $7 on Etsy. Then all you need are some colored pencils or markers, and a quiet space to get started. You can color for as little or as long as you like, making it a low-maintenance activity that easily fits into your self-care routine.
Coloring can be a social activity
While coloring is often thought of as a solo activity, it can also be a fun and relaxing way to connect with others. You can host a coloring party or a self care party with friends, join a coloring group in your community, or even color with your partner or family members. Coloring together can help you bond and foster a sense of connection and camaraderie.
Incorporating coloring books into your self-care routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply set aside some time each day or week to color, and allow yourself to fully immerse in the activity. You may be surprised at how quickly you start to feel more relaxed, centered, and grounded. So go ahead and give it a try – your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it!
