National Coloring Book Day: Reasons Why Adults Should Take Up The Mind Relaxing Activity

Coloring is more than just an art or a hobby. It is a perfect way to calm one's body, mind and soul. Adult coloring books have become the latest wellness and relaxation trend.

What makes it a restorative exercise is that coloring allows us to push other thoughts out of our heads and lets us focus on the simple task ahead, relieving us of any anxiety. No wonder coloring is called therapy without a therapist.

So, as we celebrate National Coloring Book Day on Aug. 2, here are some reasons why adults should take up the mind relaxing activity.

1) Reduce stress and anxiety: Coloring can help relax the amygdala -- the fear center of our brain. According to studies, it induces the same effect as meditating by reducing the thoughts of a restless mind, soothing the mind and allowing it some rest time after a long day of work.

According to clinical psychologist Scott M. Bea, PsyD, coloring helps increase focus. "Adult coloring requires modest attention focused outside of self-awareness. It’s a simple activity that takes us outside ourselves in the same way, cutting the lawn, knitting, or taking a Sunday drive can all be relaxing," a web platform of Cleveland Clinic quotes Dr. Bea.

2) Improves sleep: Replacing your electronic devices with coloring as a pre-bedtime ritual can work wonders. Coloring, according to experts, is a more restful activity compared to painting or sculpting. "You’re just adding color to an image that has already been created. But although you have outlines, you can always color outside them. It’s your process, so you can do whatever you want," said art therapist Cheryl Walpole.

3) Helps emotional and mental health: For many, especially the elderly population, who struggle with boredom and lack of structure in life, coloring can be a productive habit. This helps the individual remove the focus from the negative issues and habits. Adult coloring has proved to be really helpful for those suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorders, anxiety disorders, stress disorders, and depressive disorders.

4) Nurtures your creative streak: Coloring is an art and can help nurture the artist in you. One can graduate from simpler designs to challenging ones, thereby improving skills and getting creative juices flowing.