Adult Coloring Books Are Actually Great For Your Mental And Emotional Health

Within the last decade, adult coloring books have surged in popularity. Although the pictures had changed from the ones when we were still kids, the purpose is still quite the same.

There’s something about coloring that makes someone relax and feel at ease. And while coloring may appear to be childish, book publishers have turned this childhood hobby into something that adults can do as well.

A surprising trend in relaxation products has been the explosion of coloring books for adults.

When kids color, they sit still while allowing their imagination to create their masterpiece. But for adults, it became so much more than that.

Meredith Malkin, a mental health counselor and expressive arts therapist at the University of Central Florida, said:

“Creating art increases ‘the feel-good’ neurotransmitter dopamine and can reduce stress hormones, like cortisol, leaving you feeling mentally clear and calm.”

There are so many images to choose from these adult coloring books. From mandalas to Disney and Marvel characters, they are available everywhere.

Believe it or not, coloring has intellectual benefits as well. It utilizes areas of the brain that enhance focus and concentration.

While coloring seems to be just a simple past time, it can actually utilize both the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

Malkin shared:

“Creative therapies can enhance self-regulation for people who experience distress and promote authentic self-expression, feelings, and emotions. Additionally, when you get immersed in a creative process, you may find yourself in what’s known as a state of flow.”

Those who love to color reveal that this habit help them fell more relaxed, calmer, happier, and mentally clearer.

The study “Can Coloring Mandalas Reduce Anxiety?” presumed that coloring a complex geometric pattern prompted a reflective state helpful to those who suffer from anxiety attacks.