P O S I T I V E E N E R G Y

Color Me Happy: How Adult Coloring Books Can Help You Focus and Reduce Stress A favorite pastime for kids has become a popular hobby for adults. Coloring books for adults, which got their start in the ’60s,

have made a comeback. They’re now providing hours of enjoyment for the young at

heart, featuring different themes and designs—and some even have clues that reveal a

hidden message.

But what’s interesting about this new trend is its link to a range of health benefits.

Reduce anxiety and stressAs adults, we live hectic lives in an uncertain world. So it’s no wonder most of us

deal with some level of stress every day. But, a study back in 2005 showed people

could reduce stress by coloring mandalas, or circular, symmetrical art forms. You’ll

find these in many of today’s adult coloring books.

Focus the mind When you’re overly anxious, you have a hard time focusing. Some experts

believe that art in any form, including coloring, can help you regain

some of that focus. Adult coloring book author and

neuropsychologist, Dr. Stan Rodski, says coloring has similar

benefits to meditation because your mind relaxes when you color,

helping you focus your attention.

Trade bad thoughts for good onesWhen you color, you tap into the creative part of your brain—the same part of your

brain that fires up when you play. This helps trigger positive emotions, like joy, love,

contentment and interest. Also, you can more easily banish negative thoughts when

you color.

Channel Your Inner Artist TODAY!

G

Secret Garden by Johanna Basford

Enchanted Forest by Johanna Basford

Colorfy

ColorMe: Coloring Book for Adults

Momi Coloring

Pigment Colorfly

Top Selling Coloring Books

The Mindfulness Coloring Book

by Emma Farrarons

Color Me Calm

by Lacy Mucklow

The Best Adult Coloring

Apps and Books Top Selling FREE Apps

Top Selling Coloring Books

Coloring Mandalas by Susanne Fincher

TAKECHArGE!

Break out your box of colored pencils – it’s time to color! There are dozens of coloring books on the market right now available from Target™, Meijer™ or any local bookstore. Or, try online at Amazon.com.

Alternatively, there are lots of websites that offer different designs you can print off and color for free. Here are a few to check out:

Coloring Pages for Adults: http://www.coloring-pages-adults.com/ Art is Fun: http://www.art-is-fun.com/free-adult-coloring-pages/ Crayola: http://www.crayola.com/free-coloring-pages/adult-coloring-pages/

6 SUMMER 2016 in Charge