Adult Colouring In: It’s a thing and it’s good for you!
Have you ever watched a child colouring-in?
They get completely absorbed in what they are doing and they aren’t worrying about anything else.
Well, that’s the goal of adult-colouring in. Just being focused on something in a mindful way, that is also relaxing can help your brain switch off and relax.
In our crazy, modern world it’s no wonder that colouring books are in the best-seller lists! Many people struggle with meditation so this quiet activity is a good way to start.
There is some debate on whether this is a serious ‘art therapy’ or not, but I think if it feels good, do it!
Neuropsychologist and neuroscientist Dr Stan Rodski says they started seeing changes in heart rates and brain waves of people colouring in. He believes three key elements —repetition, pattern and detail— are what is responsible for the positive neurological responses in participants.
Colouring in may also be of benefit to us because it’s fun and it reminds us of our childhood. There is no doubt that it’s a great way to unplug from the electronic world and just relax.
I asked my friend and amazing life coach, Kirri White from Kirri White Coaching what she thought of adult colouring in and she says:
“I’ve started recommending coloring in books for clients who appreciate the benefits of mindfulness, but are highly resistant to formal meditation practices. It’s all about sitting quietly and zoning out, plus – there’s something incredibly therapeutic about returning to one of our childhood domains.”
Monique at The Nourished Psychologist says:
“I think adult colouring books are a great tool. They can help to calm the mind and body and help you to be present in this moment. They are great for when you are feeling stressed, anxious or distressed. Pop on some calming music while you colour too.”
There are so many colouring books available now, but I have picked out five of the best for you:
For lovers of all things flora and fauna, check out this colouring book by ‘ink evangelist’ and Scottish artist, Joanna Basford. Ramble through the Secret Garden and find all sorts of things to colour and discover and to create yourself. This book has sold over a million copies!
Get it here.
♥The Mindfulness Colouring Book
A pocket-sized go anywhere colouring book by French illustrator, Emma Farrarons. Intricate and detailed for hours of peaceful colouring.
Get it here.
♥ Zentangle Drawing for a Calm and Focused Mind
Zentangle is a step up from colouring in that you draw doodles to make beautiful patterns. You can then colour them in or leave them black and white.
Get this one here.
My friend Tash from A Girl, A Guy, Fur Kids and Food is a huge fan of Zentangle and she says:
“I first looked into Zentangle for pain management and stress relief. Zentangle can be practiced in small doses which suited me as I can’t spend a great deal of time using my arm and shoulder due to injury. No artistic skills are required as the patterns are so simple to follow and the beauty is in the sense of Zen that you feel when you think of nothing but the page, the pen and the pattern. Colouring in was much the same. The mind stops wandering, stops being in the past and/or the future and stays in the present as you lay down colour on the page. Both are a lovely way to practice a more dynamic form of mindfulness”
An ancient form of meditative art, mandalas are known for their restorative power as well as their ability to provide tranquility and a sense of self. There are 200 in this book to spark your creativity.
Get it here.
What to colour in with?
You are only limited to your imagination! Pens, pencils, gel pens, markers – whatever takes your fancy. Lyra colouring in pencils are top quality, non-toxic and forest friendly. Get them here.
Do you colour in? Tell us what you love about it.