From crisp pages with beautiful designs to an array of colourful pencils, colouring books have moved from just a childhood activity to a popular meditative adult pastime.
Research shows the link between being in the present moment colouring shapes and pictures lowers the heart rate and calms anxiety as well as relieving feelings of restlessness and even depression.
Similar to focusing on a specific and enjoyable task like cooking, writing a journal or reading, taking time and attention colouring an object or pattern is proven to calm the mind. It’s not just colouring, drawing and allowing the mind to be free to create makes space for self-expression, freedom and personal empowerment to do what feels right at the time without judgement.
By focusing on detail, selecting the colours and being in the present moment, the brain and body has an opportunity to let go of the cycle of over thinking.
Focusing on the benefits of colouring include:
Being present in the moment whilst focusing on the colours and design enabling the mind to switch from anxious or negative thoughts.
Lowering the heart rate by focusing the mind on the meditative state of colouring or drawing
Releasing feel good hormone dopamine by seeing the colouring you have created generating positivity and inner happiness
Taking time away from technology whilst colouring or drawing can create a sense of calmness by taking a break from the often continuance feed of social media
Colouring helps us focus on the present moment
Anyone can benefit there is no need to be artistic, simply allowing the direction of the lines and patterns to guide you
Colouring provides a level of self-expression by allowing creativity and personal decision making
Mindful colouring can also be a wonderful compliment to art therapy
What is art therapy?
Art therapy is described by the American Art Therapy Association as being facilitated by a mental health professional, art therapists use art media, the creative process and the resulting artwork to explore feelings, reconcile emotional conflict, foster self-awareness, manage behaviour and additions and reduce anxiety whilst increasing self-esteem. There is a link and a trend for many people to engage in mindful colouring as either an enjoyable pastime as well as a tool to manage calmness and inner peace.
If you’re looking for an accessible and therapeutic pastime, colouring is an enjoyable rewarding and tool to assist your inner creative whilst providing calmness and meditation
