You probably don’t need a blog post or scientific study to explain the benefits of coloring to you -- we all know it is crazy relaxing! After a long day, coloring can help keep chaos inside the lines and be an artistic outlet. So, are there actual benefits associated with coloring?
Turns out, there are five major benefits to coloring books and coloring. You'll want to make it a permanent part of your day after reading this article! It's the perfect way to celebrate #NationalColoringDay (September 14)!
Read on to learn about five benefits of coloring, and download our CBD coloring pages for free!
It doesn't really matter what age you are. There is just something so appealing about a coloring book page!
Get Your Free Coloring Pages Here
Coloring Page #1 (Hemplucid Logo)
Coloring Page #2 (Mandala Design)
5 Proven Benefits of Coloring
Here are five quick facts about coloring that explain why it is so beneficial. Combine this practice with CBD and you might just add more calm to your day!
-
Coloring can reduce anxiety.
Recent research showed that coloring and drawing decrease heart rate and arrhythmia -- both of which are elevated when you get anxious. Coloring can be a great activity to reduce the amount of anxiety and stress you feel you are experiencing. -
Coloring can express enjoyment.
Distracting graphic activities (such as coloring) can result in more enjoyment than even artistic counterparts like drawing! In other words, what seems like a mindless activity is actually an expression of enjoyment. Coloring can be a great way to distract from life’s stresses while also engaging in something that can improve mood and mindfulness. -
Coloring can make you more creative.
A scientific study recently found that scores on original ideation went up after coloring. This means that coloring a template might actually make you more capable of creating something all your own. How cool is that?! -
Coloring can make you more fearless.
Yup, you read that right. Coloring has the power to reduce anxiety, a feeling closely related to fear. Studies show that coloring reduces worries and improves mindfulness in a way that helps us overcome our anxieties. -
Coloring can improve your attention.
Mindful attention is something we each need more of on the daily. Coloring helps to improve mindful attention while also allowing space for expression. Studies show that coloring can be a great way to balance the structure and engagement needed to keep attention on an assignment.
References
Eaton J. The Effects of Coloring on Anxiety, Mood, and Perseverance. Am J Art Ther. 2-17;34(1):42-46.
Holt NJ. Cognitive and Affective Benefits of Coloring Two Randomized Controlled Crossover Studies. Am J Art Ther.2019;36(4):200-208.
Turturro N, Drake JE. Does Coloring Reduce Anxiety? Comparing the Psychological and Psychophysiological Benefits of Coloring Versus Drawing. Empir Stud. 2020.
