Mindful Coloring: Rediscovering Your Inner Child for Stress Relief and Higher Serotonin Levels

In an age where stress often seems just a natural part of life, finding simple, effective methods to alleviate tension is more crucial than ever. One surprising, yet increasingly popular method of stress relief is coloring. Often associated with childhood, coloring books for adults have surged in popularity as a means to relax and unwind. Beyond nostalgia, coloring provides tangible mental health benefits, such as stress reduction and even an increase in serotonin levels, contributing to overall well-being.

The Rise of Adult Coloring

What was once seen as just a playful activity for children has transformed into a worldwide trend among adults. This resurgence can be traced back to the early 2010s when adult coloring books started appearing on bestseller lists. Unlike children’s coloring books, adult versions often feature intricate patterns and designs, such as mandalas, botanicals, and abstract shapes. But why has this activity become so popular among adults? The answer lies in its simplicity and its therapeutic effects.

Psychological and Neurological Benefits

Stress Reduction

Coloring has a meditative quality; it allows for easy focus on the moment, pushing aside persistent negative thoughts and relieving stress. The action of coloring requires repetition and attention to detail, which helps anchor the mind in the present moment, much like a meditative practice. This mindfulness can decrease the activity of the amygdala, the brain region involved in managing emotions affected by stress.

Enhancement of Creativity

Coloring engages the parts of the brain involved in creativity and logic. A paper published in Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association found that just 30 minutes of structured coloring (mandalas and plaid patterns), significantly reduces symptoms of anxiety compared to unstructured coloring (blank page). This structured coloring enables the mind to relax, recharge, and prepare for tasks that require creativity and critical thinking.

Boost in Serotonin

Engaging in pleasurable activities like coloring can lead to an increase in serotonin levels, known as the "happiness hormone." Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. It plays a significant role in combating depression and regulating anxiety. By focusing on a joyful activity, individuals may experience a natural boost in serotonin, promoting a sense of calm and happiness.

Rediscovering Your Inner Child

Adult coloring is not just about stress relief; it’s also about reconnecting with the simple joys experienced during childhood. This return to a child-like state can be incredibly liberating and healing. In a world where adults are frequently burdened with responsibilities and expectations, coloring offers a chance to escape momentarily and engage in an activity free from judgments and outcomes.

Mindful Coloring Practices

To fully benefit from the stress-relieving properties of coloring, consider incorporating it as a regular practice. Here are some tips on how to integrate mindful coloring into your daily routine:

1. Set Aside Regular Time: Like any form of meditation or exercise, the benefits of coloring are best experienced with regular practice. Schedule a regular "coloring break" to unwind and relax.

2. Create a Comfortable Space: Make your coloring environment inviting and comfortable. Use a quiet corner of your home with good lighting and perhaps some soothing background music.

3. Choose the Right Materials: Invest in a set of quality coloring materials that you find appealing and enjoyable to use. Whether you prefer colored pencils, markers, or crayons, using materials that you like can enhance the experience.

4. Let Go of Perfection: The goal of coloring for relaxation is not to create a masterpiece, but to enjoy the process. Let go of any expectations about the outcome and allow yourself to experiment with colors and techniques.

5. Use Coloring as a Mindfulness Exercise: Try to stay fully present as you color. Focus on the sensations—the feel of the pencil in your hand, the sound of the pencil moving across the paper, and the sight of colors filling the blank spaces.

Conclusion

Mindful coloring is an accessible, effective way to reduce stress, rediscover your inner child, and increase serotonin levels. This simple activity can provide a quiet refuge from the complexities of adult life, offering a therapeutic blend of creativity, meditation, and nostalgia. As we continue to navigate the stresses of modern living, finding peace in the pages of a coloring book might just be the key to maintaining our mental health and well-being. In embracing the vibrant world of adult coloring, we not only enhance our artistic expressions but also enrich our mental landscapes, crafting a colorful path to tranquility and joy.

About Shine

Shine, a mental wellness supplement company, offers an all-in-one natural supplement to help increase serotonin levels to feel more focused, emotionally stable, happier and calmer. Shine was founded after our co-founder overcame mental health challenges using plant-based ingredients. This passionate initiative, supported by a team of health professionals, aims to make mental wellness accessible to all through natural, effective solutions.