The Therapeutic Benefits of Colouring as Mindfulness Exercise
Colouring has long been associated with children’s activities, but did you know that it is also recognised as an effective tool for mindfulness and stress relief in adults? In fact, colouring books have become popular stress reducers among adults in recent years. This article explores the therapeutic benefits of colouring as mindfulness exercise and how it can help improve mental health.
Introduction
The fast-paced nature of life today means that many individuals struggle to find time to relax. Mindfulness exercises like yoga, meditation and tai chi have become common ways to combat stress and anxiety. However, colouring is an emerging mindfulness technique that has gained popularity in recent years thanks to its therapeutic benefits.
Mindfulness is being completely present in the moment, and colouring can make the mind focus and create a meditative state. It helps you to slow down, relax, and relieve stress by focusing on the task at hand. Colouring can also stimulate both sides of the brain, therefore creating a sense of balance.
Body
The art of colouring is not a new innovation but its use for mental wellness is relatively novel. Art therapy has been used for nearly a century, but colouring, in particular, has only been studied recently. Research has shown that colouring reduces anxiety and has a calming effect on the mind.
Colouring is an easy technique to adopt as it requires minimal supplies. You can carry books and pencils with you wherever you go, as it can be practiced at home or while commuting to and from work. It is an affordable and fun practice that can benefit those who struggle with mental disorders like depression and anxiety.
Colouring also has effects similar to mindful meditation. A study in participants experiencing symptoms of depression showed that after daily practice of colouring for a week, there was a significant reduction in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and many physiological symptoms too.
Furthermore, the repetitive nature of colouring can bring about focus on a particular subject, allowing the artist (or colourist) to separate negative thoughts from their mind. By focusing on creativity rather than problems, it helps promote a positive outlook on life.
Conclusion
As this research demonstrates, the benefits of colouring go beyond just being a form of entertainment. Mindful colouring can improve mental wellbeing, reduce stress and anxiety, and serve as a form of meditation. Colouring can also be a social activity that helps to build connections while sharing ideas and inspirations.
While colouring cannot replace therapies like professional counseling, it is a simple, creative, and accessible technique that can complement other self-help practices. This technique can be incorporated into daily life, and it is an easy way to take a few minutes to unwind. So why not pick up some pencils and start experiencing the therapeutic benefits of mindful colouring?
