As awareness of mindfulness and stress management self-care techniques grows, adults are rediscovering the simple pleasures of engaging in coloring to relax, while also improving their brain function. And now researchers have found that focusing on coloring “inside the lines” can help you “think outside the box,” through the recent trend of adult coloring books.
Although, using coloring books should not be confused with the delivery of professional art therapy services, during which a client engages with a credentialed art therapist, they can be a great resource for self-care, and when part of a group, the shared experience can make it more meaningful. Engaging in coloring, in addition to being stress relieving, can lead to becoming more familiar with art materials. As residents become more confident, they may become interested in more creative expressions such as free drawing, painting or other artistic engagement.