Colouring trend for adults
Five years ago so called ‘art therapy’ (essentially colouring for adults) was introduced for the first time to the world. As a result, colouring is no longer viewed as an activity just for children; but also as a useful tool for adults to fight against daily stress, anxiety and even to help deal with psychological traumas. As demand for such books quickly grew, various themes were created portraying mandala, floral, ocean and animal patterns so that everyone could pick their favourites.
The background
One of the earliest creators, and most famous authors, of adult colouring books is Johanna Basford. Her Secret Garden and Enhanced Forest colouring book series, published in 2011, sold millions of copies worldwide and were translated into fourteen languages. Johanna, or “inky illustration” (as she calls herself), was originally preparing a traditional children’s book when she had another idea. Why not to create a colouring book for adults? During one interview, Johanna revealed that it took her some time to convince editors to publish the very first book. At that time colouring for adults simply wasn’t considered as a credible idea, so they were understandably sceptical about this new concept. However, colouring for adults has now overwhelmed, not only the U.S., but the entire world
Why is it so good?
Basford tells us that “We’re living in an increasingly digital world. People are plugged in 24/7 and I think we just crave that ability to switch off and to focus on something real.” It’s true that people are drifting away from creating things using their own hands and imagination. Each day at work we use scripts and pre-programmed technology to ease our workload; and once we get back home we again immerse ourselves in the digital world. We call it relaxation, however at the end of the day we still feel tired and exhausted. Why is that? Simply because our energy is being sucked away by all those gadgets. We leave no room for creativity and skill development. It’s hard to find free time for our favourite activities such as reading, drawing or playing an instrument.
That’s why pattern colouring is a very easy and rewarding activity. Just pick your favourite pencils, find a comfortable spot in the house and start colouring. The idea of it is to allow yourself to escape from worries and stress. It really is that simple.
Researchers have also shown that adult colouring books are a path to calmness and mindfulness. The process of colouring and creating something can be as relaxing as a session of meditation, helping you reach a kind of psychological nirvana. It has a significant impact on people’s mental and physical health. Used as a treatment, it can also be part of a larger plan for coping with uncomfortable feelings and trauma.
Believe it or not, colouring has intellectual benefits as well. It involves areas of the brain that enhance focus and concentration. Moreover, it helps with problem solving and improves organisational skills. Carefully filling each detail with colour strengthens focus and fosters patience.
The process all starts with the purchase. Book stores are usually quiet, friendly and relaxing environments. You can take your time choosing your favourite pattern book and colouring tools. This process will draw you away from the outside world’s stress as the only worry you will have is which things to buy. Just as if you went back to your childhood; when life was simpler and carefree.
Most ‘art therapy’ patterns resemble fairy-tale like elements and there are no rules as to how to colour them. The waterfalls can be filled with silver water, the forest coloured to be full of pink bunnies and golden mushrooms. Let your imagination run wild. Drift away from reality and don’t think too much about it.
Getting started
Adult colouring books come in a range of different prices. Buying them from official websites can cost you from $10 to $20 depending on page count and how detailed the patterns are. However, here in Thailand, they can be found in bookstores for as little as 120 THB. The other alternative, if you don’t want to buy a book, is to find patterns online and print them out. As the colouring trend is becoming more popular, thousands of free blank templates can now be found online all ready for printing. If you are interested check these websites out:
http://www.coloring-pages-adults.com/
So why not to grab some pencils and immerse yourself into a world of colouring? It’s great fun, amazingly therapeutic and easy to do.
