Adult coloring has gained a lot of popularity recently, and for good reason! If you are thinking about starting it as a new hobby, or simply want to know more about adult coloring- here are 10 things you might not know about adult coloring in!
There’s something out there for everyone
The rise in popularity of this hobby has meant that there is literally something for everyone. From the more run of the mill animals, landscapes and everyday pictures to the more niche motivational quotes and mandalas- you will never run out of things to color! If you’re looking for a place to start, here has a brilliant range of coloring pages and books to explore.
It’s good for you
Research has shown that coloring actually activates the part of the brain that is used when solving puzzles- without the added irritation of not being able to find a corner piece!
The first coloring book made for adults was published in 1961
The first adult coloring book was called The Executive Coloring Book and was filled with satirical drawings designed to raise political awareness. Probably not as relaxing as most coloring pages of today!
Perfect social activity
Did you know there is such a thing as a coloring-in party? If you’ve never been to one-host one! It’s the perfect medium to keep your hands busy while the conversation and snacks flow (and it’s not as expensive as shopping, bowling or paint n sip- although I do love a good paint n sip session).
Great for people who need to fidget
Most people I know are fidgeters- whether they have an underlying medical or mental health reason, they have excess energy or simply have a bunch of fiddly habits (hair twiddling, nail biting, paper shredding anyone?). Coloring is a great way to keep that fidgety energy at bay and is waaaay less destructive. Trust me- I know!
Cost effective and easy to start hobby
As far as hobbies go, there’s a lot to choose from- but if you’re saving money or don’t want to buy a heap of niche activity gear- coloring is an easy hobby to begin and maintain. All you need is something to color with, and something to color. That’s it! You don’t need classes, fancy equipment or a specific location. You can just start!
You can find your own style
As you begin your quest into the coloring world you might try a little bit of everything, but don’t be surprised if you start to find favorite coloring topics, techniques and materials as you go on. If you decide watercolor sea animals are your jam, then boom, there’s your style. The possibilities are literally endless.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Did you know that coloring has actually been proven to improve and help maintain mental health? It lowers anxiety levels, helps dilute negative thoughts and reduces stress. How amazing is that?
It is a therapeutic practice
If you would like to incorporate more mindfulness or cognitive behavioural therapy into your life- coloring could be the way to go! The focus on repetitive hand movements, concentration on something other than our thoughts, and the quiet, calming nature of the activity qualifies coloring as a therapeutic practice.
It’s good for your inner child
As adults, we don’t have as many opportunities as we’d like to have fun- especially fun that nurtures our inner child. Coloring fits that bill perfectly. Even if you didn’t color a lot as a kid, the chance to get lost in whatever picture you are coloring, creating your own masterpiece without a worry in the world is healing for not only your adult self, but your younger self too.
