Live Longer Habits

Colouring books aren't just for children anymore. In fact, adult colouring books have become quite popular lately. If you already have one or are considering getting one (print it for free) , there are many benefits to colouring during your free time. 

1. Soothes Your Mind and Boosts Brain Function

Colouring is a perfect way to calm your mind. When you colour, you engage with a simple task that helps quiet your thoughts and relax. This activity can also help your brain work better. Different areas of your brain are used when you colour. Picking colours sparks your creativity, while colouring shapes taps into your logic. 

2. Promotes Mindfulness

While adult colouring isn't a substitute for art therapy, it can still be therapeutic for many. Some studies show that concentrating on the intricate patterns in your colouring book can help you enter a meditative state. This means you stop worrying about the past or future and focus solely on the present moment. By concentrating on colouring, you can block out negative thoughts and feelings. With practice, you'll become better at meditating through colouring. 

3. Enhances Hand Coordination

Colouring detailed designs with small areas improves your hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills—things you may not use much when scrolling on digital devices. Some health experts believe activities like colouring, crossword puzzles, and brainteasers not only engage these skills but might also help delay dementia. 

4. Aids Sleep 

If you colour before bedtime, you’re likely to sleep better than if you spend that time on your phone. The blue light from gadgets can interfere with your sleep by disrupting melatonin production. Colouring helps you steer clear of screens, letting your body prepare for sleep naturally. 

5. Increases Focus

Adult colouring can also sharpen your focus. Colouring activates the frontal lobe of your brain, helping it to organise and solve problems. Spending time colouring lets you unwind from the day while concentrating on a single task. 

6. Lowers Anxiety

Research shows that colouring can effectively reduce anxiety in adults. Colouring for at least 20 minutes can help lower your heart rate and diminish anxious feelings. Studies indicate that colouring more detailed designs, like mandalas, may be more beneficial than simpler patterns.

 Other ways colouring can help with anxiety include boosting your mood, enhancing mindfulness, and reducing mental stress. If you find you need more help, consider speaking to a creative practitioner or art therapist. By colouring, you're not only improving your mental state but also benefiting your body. The relaxation from colouring can help lessen anxiety, which may reduce your risk of body aches, sleep difficulties, fatigue, and even depression. 

While it won’t completely cure anxiety or depression, colouring can help lower stress levels that could contribute to these issues. If colouring brings you joy, make it a regular part of your routine. 

7. Relieves Stress

One major benefit of colouring for adults is the stress relief it provides. This repetitive activity requires attention to detail, which helps to distract you from stressors in your day. Starting or ending your day by colouring might also bring back fond childhood memories, which can help you feel more relaxed. 

Conclusion

Whether you colour just for enjoyment or to help clear your mind, there's no reason not to try it. Colouring is not just for kids. The next time you feel overwhelmed, take a break and start colouring!

Sources: Webmd, www.magazine.co.uk