You’ve probably heard about the colouring books for adult trend, a popular new way to alleviate stress that brings you back to the good old days of your childhood.
The process is therapeutic and promotes mindfulness, wellness and alleviates stress. It’s said to have the same benefits as meditating, but an easier way to reach this empty state of consciousness. Colouring in repetitive patterns like mandalas (circular figure of intricate geometric shapes – a spiritual symbol in Indian religions) for instance, with proven effects from scientific studies.
The Benefits Of Adult Colouring:
Relieves Stress
The great psychiatrist Carl Jung was the earliest to discover the effects of colouring mandalas. After he prescribed the activity to he found it as an effective calming tool. Colouring takes the mind away from troublesome and evasive thoughts, removing the mind from the emotional strain of stress.
Stimulates The Brain
The act of colouring incorporate both areas of the cerebral cortex of the brain. These control vision, coordination and fine motor skills. A fun way of keeping the brain active and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Reduces Anxiety
Colouring calms the amygdala the fear centre of the brain which is responsible for the fight or flight response. This makes colouring an effective way of reducing anxiety!
Taps Into Our Inner Childhood
Go back to the worry free days of no obligations. Colouring taps into these emotions which is incredibly relaxing and cathartic. This is one of the reasons why colouring in is such a good stress relief.
Now you know the benefits, here are our favourite colouring books!
The 5 Best Colouring Books for Adults
Great British Bake Off Colouring Book
A colouring book including 90 stunning GBBO illustrations from Tom Hovey, the illustrator for the original intricate designs from the show. A great way to relax and destress when your mind just isn’t cooperating.
Millie Marotta’s Animal Kingdom – A Colouring Book Adventure
An Animal Kingdom adventure illustrated by Millie Marotta, is full of beautiful and detailed illustrations. The book is an international and Sunday Times best seller.
Millie Marotta’s Tropical Wonderland
A part of Millie Marotta’s best selling colour book collection, this time with a tropical theme. A beautiful collection of complex designs, in Marotta’s well-loved and intricate style.
Colour Me Calm Book 3: Mandalas: Volume 3
A relaxing colour book comprising of complex mandalas for full therapeutic and calming effect, an easy way to unwind and de-stress.
Take your pick of these fun and beautifully designed colouring books to relieve your stress and reach that relaxing meditative state. They are a great benefit for anyone burdened by stress, occupying your mind with a stimulating activity. It won’t alleviate long-term mental or emotional problems but the activity will certainly help to temporarily reach a more relaxed mindset.
