Though some people think coloring is just for kids, adult coloring books continue to grow in popularity in part due to the various health benefits associated with coloring.
1) Brain Function
According to WebMD, coloring books can help improve brain function for adults because coloring activates different parts of the brain’s cerebral hemispheres. For example, choosing which colors to use in certain areas activates the creative part of the brain, while coloring forms and shapes activates the logical side of the brain.
2) Relaxation
Some studies have shown that focusing on the complicated structure of a coloring book page can induce a meditative state and help with relaxation. This works because coloring allows you to simply focus on a single task, which aids in suspending your inner dialogue, intrusive thoughts, and/or negative emotions from entering your mind.
3) Motor Skills
More advanced coloring book designs with smaller spaces require more advanced hand-eye coordination and motor skills to complete. Some health professionals have even suggested that activities such as coloring books, crossword puzzles, and brainteasers can help delay certain mental diseases such as dementia.
4) Sleep & Focus
Coloring before bed, rather than scrolling on your phone, can help improve your sleep because electronics expose the brain to blue light, which stops the body’s natural melatonin release. Additionally, because coloring activates your frontal lobe, participating in this activity regularly can help your brain with organization, problem-solving, and focus.
5) Stress & Anxiety
Studies suggest that coloring for 20 minutes or more per day is an effective way to lower your heart rate and decrease feelings of anxiety. The more intricate the design, the more effective coloring seems to be at reducing anxiety and improving overall mood.
Additionally, coloring can be linked to feelings of nostalgia from childhood. Reminding the brain and body of a simpler and less stressful time can also help reduce stress and increase relaxation.
