You probably haven’t picked up your art supplies since high school, but research suggests that if you suffer from stress or anxiety it might be time to take up colouring. Adult colouring books are popping up in more stores, and there may be more to them than just a passing fad. Not only have psychiatrists been prescribing colouring to patients for years, there is evidence that there are some significant benefits associated with colouring, outlined below.
cc licensed flickr photo by William Warby
Colouring reduces stress and anxiety
Sitting down with some crayons and a colouring book has been described, by some, as a meditative experience. This makes sense, as colouring allows the amygdala, which is a portion of the brain responsible for fear, to relax. This, in turn, allows you to relax and can actually train the amygdala to respond better to stress.
Colouring improves focus
We’ve been told since our childhood to stay inside the lines while colouring, and it turns out that doing so actually improves our focus. Setting aside a set amount of time for an activity that requires focus, without causing frustration, forces us to be present and allows us to forget other worries. In addition this activity opens up the frontal lobe, improving organization and problem-solving.
Colouring improves fine motor skills and vision
Logic and creativity are required while colouring, forcing the two hemispheres of our brain to communicate, thus improving fine motor skills and vision. Colouring books are similar to crossword puzzles, in that they have both been shown to delay or prevent the onset of dementia while providing therapeutic benefits.
Colouring doesn’t have to be an individual activity either. Spend time with your kids or grab your friends and some food and drinks and sit down for a colouring party. Will you be picking up an adult colouring book on your next trip to the bookstore?
Source
Wilson, K. (2015, August 4). 7 Reasons Adult Coloring Books Will Make Your Life A Whole Lot Brighter. Retrieved September 3, 2015.
