5 Reasons You Should Buy An Adult Coloring Book

You might fondly remember coloring books from your childhood or perhaps your children or grandchildren enjoy this activity. However, coloring isn't just a nostalgic pastime—increasing numbers of adults are rediscovering coloring as a form of active meditation.

Adult coloring books, featuring more detailed and abstract designs than those for children, have surged in popularity over the past year.

Here are 5 reasons why more people are sharpening their colored pencils!

1Adult coloring can be a form of active meditation

According to communication expert Mark Waldman, active meditation involves focusing attention on simple, repetitive tasks. This type of meditation can be easier for many to engage with than traditional concentrative meditation.

Besides adult coloring, other forms of active meditation include walking, yoga, and Tai chi. Concentrating on filling the page with chosen colors gently steers the mind to the present and blocks out intrusive thoughts, achieving the goal of any meditation.

2Adult coloring has been used in therapy for decades

Coloring has been a therapeutic tool long before its recent popularity spike. In fact, the renowned psychologist Carl Jung introduced this practice to the West in the early 1900s, and it has been used in therapy ever since. “I use them and I suggest them to my clients,” states psychotherapist Kelley Kitley. “It's a way to practice being present, mindful, and awaken the senses.”

Adult coloring has been employed as a therapy technique for those suffering from depression, trauma, PTSD, and more, contributing to its widespread adoption.

3Adult coloring is a way to practice mindfulness

As Psychology Today explains, mindfulness is “a state of active, open attention on the present.” It involves being aware of emotions and thoughts without judging them. In the hustle of modern life, practicing mindfulness is beneficial, as research has shown it reduces stress and can make you happier, more focused, and relaxed when regularly practiced.

4Adult coloring may help lower your blood pressure

Since adult coloring can serve as a form of meditation, it may also help lower blood pressure.

A three-month study had patients on blood pressure medication try “relaxation response”—essentially, a form of meditation. By the end of the study, 40 of the 60 patients had reduced blood pressure and were able to decrease their medication.

5Adult coloring offers a way to disconnect from technology

One of the most surprising aspects of adult coloring’s popularity is that it necessitates disconnecting from technology. “Coloring allows us to create something beautiful, even if that particular day in our life may not be our best,” observes Randi Levin, a certified transitional life coach, writer, and inspirational speaker. “When we turn off the tech, we engage our minds and hearts. We become lost in our thoughts and present in our intentions.”

To color, you must use a pencil, marker, or crayon—no app required. This is noteworthy, considering many new trends are technology-driven. Since disconnecting for a while can positively impact our mental health, this is yet another benefit of adult coloring.

Are you itching to start coloring yet?

One caveat is that adult coloring needs to be practiced consistently to achieve these benefits. A single coloring session isn’t going to miraculously melt away stress, lower blood pressure, or make you a meditation guru.

But if you’ve bought a coloring book, why stop with one finished page?

Is adult coloring one of your relaxing hobbies?

If so, tell us what you think! How does it help you?