The presence of coloring books in the hands of teens and adults  has dramatically increased during the span of the last couple months. Normally, it is associated with young children. However, these are not normal coloring books; they have exquisite detail and beautiful pictures to fill in with the desired colors.  Meditation coloring has been linked to stress relief and relaxation.  Teen and adult coloring generates wellness, quietness and stimulates brain areas related to motor skills, the senses and creativity.

 Many doctors and psychologists recommend it as a de-stressing technique. “The action involves both logic, by which coloring forms, and creativity, when mixing and matching colors. This incorporates the areas of the cerebral cortex involved in vision and fine motor skills [coordination necessary to make small, precise movements]. The relaxation that it provides lowers the activity of the amygdala, a basic part of our brain involved in controlling emotion that is affected by stress,” says psychologist Gloria Martinez Ayala.  Coloring opens our mind to a creative, freer state. We use it to express feelings; different colors for different moods, and emotions. It is even said that the detail in the books helps with brain development and concentration.

 What do you think about the new coloring trend?

Would you use it for de-stressing?

List some things you do for decreasing stress! Comment below!