Do Colouring Books Help To Reduce Stress?
- jjhanaproducts
- Dec 18, 2023
- 3 min read
Stress has become an unwanted companion for many people in the rush of modern life. A growing number of people are turning to non-traditional techniques like adult colouring books as they look for efficient ways to reduce and manage their stress. Researchers and psychologists are both curious about this seemingly straightforward activity, which has led to studies into the topic of whether colouring books reduces stress. We will examine the scientific data supporting colouring's therapeutic advantages in this post.
The Brain and Colouring
Colouring stimulates different brain areas, which leads to a state of calm and awareness. In a study that was published in the journal "Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association," it was found that colouring can engage several cerebral cortex regions, including those related to creativity and motor skills. The brain area in charge of processing stress and emotions, the amygdala, may become less active as a result of this activation.
In addition, colouring induces a concentrated attention state that is comparable to meditation. "Flow" is the term for this condition, which has been linked to reduced stress and elevated emotions of wellbeing. People can briefly detach from the stresses of daily life by colouring since it is a rhythmic and repeated activity that fosters meditation.
The Effect on Psychophysiology
The psychophysiological effects of colouring on stress levels have been the subject of numerous investigations. According to a 2017 study published in the "Journal of the American Art Therapy Association," participants' cortisol levels significantly decreased when they coloured intricate geometric patterns. Known as the "stress hormone," cortisol is linked to the body's fight-or-flight reaction.
An additional investigation into the effects of colouring on anxiety and heart rate was carried out at the University of Otago in New Zealand. The findings showed a significant drop in heart rate and anxiety following a 30-minute colouring session; they were published in "Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association" in 2019.
Art Therapy to Reduce Stress
Colouring is a popular component of art therapy, which has long been known to have beneficial impacts on mental health. According to a Drexel University study, cancer patients' physical and mental discomfort symptoms significantly decreased when they engaged in art-making activities, such as colouring. The research, which was published in the "Journal of Psychosocial Oncology" in 2016, demonstrated how art therapy can help with stress management by fostering emotional expression and giving patients a sense of control.
The Significance of Colour
The benefits of colouring books on stress relief may also be influenced by the colours used in them. The University of Sussex's research found that being in colourful surroundings had a favourable impact on happiness and well-being. According to a theory called colour psychology, particular hues elicit particular feelings. For instance, cool hues like blue and green are connected to serenity and relaxation, while warm hues like red and orange are linked to energy and warmth.
In summary,
Colouring books have been shown by scientists to be useful instruments for reducing stress. Thanks to its calming properties, psychophysiological effects, and cognitive engagement, colouring can be a therapeutic activity for people of all ages. In our hectic environment, colouring can be a creative and entertaining way to relieve stress, whether it's done on its own or as part of a larger art therapy programme. Thus, the next time you're feeling stressed, think about getting some coloured pencils and losing yourself in a colouring book's soothing colour scheme. Your health and mind might appreciate it.
By JJHANA writers' team.
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