Adult colouring books have been around for a few years now, so you may already have bought yourself one, or borrowed a book from a friend and had a go.

The first time I tried it, it was with a good friend and lots of bubbles (aka sparkling wine). I think garlic prawns may have been involved too...

We sat outside on a beautiful sunny day and got stuck in.

And at first, I really couldn't see what all the fuss was about. I also found myself getting all tensed up trying to focus too hard and colour exactly inside the lines. I also kept thinking 'am I doing it right?' And 'why does my friend's picture look so much more amazing than mine...?'.

By the way that's fairly common...

But then I just took a few deep breaths, some fortifying sips, and carried on. And you know what? It was fun. And relaxing.

And no it wasn’t the bubbles :-)

Once I relaxed into it. And allowed myself to just let go. And stopped trying to be perfect and 'get it right'.

Since that experience, I now love these colouring books! They are perfect for those quiet afternoons when all you want to do is relax and spend some time with yourself. Or you want to invite some friends over so you can relax and have fun together.

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Why Colouring Books?

There are mixed reviews about adult colouring books. And while some studies have found them to be beneficial and showing that they assist in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms[1], other studies haven't found much at all.

Apparently, adult colouring books are "more abstract, require more dexterity, and contain calming subject matter created in intricate patterns. They are designed to provide a time out, so to speak, when adults can spend time in a focused, creative activity that can have a calming effect[2]".

Experiments into colouring and mindfulness indicated that it’s only-guided colouring in that led to increased mindfulness[3]. But it also found that some participants got annoyed being guided while trying to colour.

Go figure!

But there does appear to be some evidence for a reduction in anxiety and stress, as colouring in can lead to a meditative state. And this reduction in stress and anxiety then leads to the additional benefits of better sleep, increased creativity, improved focus, and enhanced motor skills.

So regardless of what any studies say, why not try it out for yourself if you haven't already!