Coloring Isn't Just for Kids: 5 Reasons Adults Should Color, Too!

I'm not an artist. About the only thing I can draw is a frog, and I learned that from a learn to draw book when I was a kid. Truth be told, the frog was the only thing I could draw out of the whole book that even resembled what it was supposed to! Oh, and there was that one time in elementary art class I made this amazing clay witch, with a wart on her face and a frown, only to realize the project was supposed to be a happy kitchen witch!

What I can do though is color. Until I had kids, I can't remember the last time I sat down to color. Lately my kids have been into coloring mandalas and other intricate patterns like zentangle. We now have a collection of dozens of fine tip markers in a huge array of colors, and when we all need a break from life, we sit down together and color. The kids might still have a better artistic vision than I do, but thankfully mandalas look cool no matter how you design them.

Here's a few reasons you should color too. 

1. Reduce Stress & Anxiety

It's hard to be stressed when you're coloring. After all, with art, there is no "right" or "wrong" way to create a masterpiece. Focusing on the task at hand, especially if you're coloring a mandala, which is considered an object of meditation in some cultures, gives your mind time to become calm.

2. Shift Your Negative Emotions

Coloring can take you back to your childhood when things might have been simpler. Take time to think about happy memories, or to have your kids join you at the table to color. Finding joy in the moment can help negative emotions dissipate.

3. Spark Creativity 

As an adult we are often focused on tasks: getting the kids to school on time, our work tasks that must be completed, paying the bills, cooking dinner, and taking care of the zillion other things on our daily "to do" list. Coloring allows your mind to wander and explore an endless world of creativity and design, and exercises different parts of your brain than what you might use in your day to day musings.

4. Increase Mindfulness

Our lives often require us to be masters of multitasking. How often do we focus on just one thing at a time? Taking time to focus on coloring allows us to be more in the moment and provides an opportunity for us to slow down in a fast paced life. 

5. Take an Adult "Time Out"

Coloring is an easy activity that takes your whole brain to complete. It's an opportunity to take a time out from the busyness or stress of the day. Even if it's just for five minutes, it's an opportunity to recharge. 

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