Three reasons you need a coloring book for adults

When was the last time you sat down with a coloring book?

Maybe it was when you were using fat crayons and having a hard time staying within the lines.

Not that I am judging—kids use coloring to fine-tune their hand-eye coordination, practice holding a writing tool, and develop the skills of patience and planning. At this point in your adult life, you feel as though you can no longer benefit from coloring, as you have no doubt mastered the skills I have mentioned above.

But 2015 saw adult coloring books popping up on every corner. Seems strange? It isn’t. Studies show adult coloring offers some profound benefits, even if you no longer struggle with coordination.

1. Relaxation

I have long been an avid proponent of coloring. I never gave it up from childhood, relishing the relaxation it afforded me after a long day of classes and work. Turns out, coloring allows your amygdala, the integrative center for emotions, emotional behavior, and motivation, to relax, which in turn, allows you to relax.

2. Exercise

There are few enjoyable activities that allow us to use both sides of our brain. As you decide which colors to use, how hard to apply the color to the paper, or even decide which you are using both the right and left hemispheres of your brain. These decisions allow your brain to work on problem-solving activities and fine motor skills.

3. Focus

When you spend time coloring, you open up the frontal lobe of the brain. The frontal lobe is responsible for organizing and problem-solving; focusing on staying inside the lines allows you to concentrate your mind without it being stressful.

Create your own coloring book for adults

There are plenty of coloring books with intricate, mindful patterns to fill with bright hues. But why not make it more personal? Try making a coloring book from some of your own favorite photos. CNET has a step-by-step process on how to convert your photos into coloring book images.

We were inspired, so we tested out the process of making and printing a coloring book of our own images. We recommend printing a trade book with standard black and white paper when making your book. The texture of the paper makes rich colors stick, and the boldness of the black makes for clear lines.

If you are looking for a little inspiration, take a look at coloring books made by other Blurb users.