An earlier post, Physical, Mental, and Emotional Self Care, outlined different ways to care for yourself; one way to care for your mental health was to do crafts or color. The act of coloring is more than just a fun break from the stress of daily life, it can be very beneficial for your mental and emotional health. In fact, psychologist Carl Jung even prescribed it to some of his patients.
1. Reduces Stress
The act of coloring can reduce stress and have a calming influence. Instead of allowing yourself to be overwhelmed by the things that are causing you stress, you can set them aside and take an art break. Plus, you can make yourself a pretty picture to hang on the fridge.
2. Great outlet
Coloring can be tremendously helpful for people with PTSD and anxiety. It can reduce stress responses and heightened states of panic, as well as be a productive outlet.
3. Sparks Creativity
Not everyone wants to be the next Van Gogh, but coloring can help you tap into your inner artist. By tackling slightly more challenging designs, you can improve your art skills and get your creative juices flowing.
4. Practice mindfulness
Sometimes it can be hard to focus while meditating or sitting still. You can incorporate coloring into your mindfulness routine as a way to keep your hands busy while your mind focuses in. It can help replace negative thoughts with positive ones. If you want to give your drawing to a friend or family member with a note of support for them, it could be an act of kindness that makes both you and them feel good.
5. Utilizes Your Brain
Coloring utilizes both your left brain and right brain through problem solving and fine motor skills. It can be great for occupational therapy or just for fun.
6. Coloring is fun!
Sometimes we all need to just take a quick break from being adults and color. Creating art the good, old fashioned way with pencil and paper offers a respite from the call of technology. Especially when life gets stressful, coloring can be a great way to get in touch with your inner child and unwind.
Want to get started? Enjoy Project Helping’s downloadable coloring sheets for adults and kids!
Click Here to download the Project Helping Coloring Book!