Self-Care and Adult Coloring Books: My October Challenge

In the last few months I have been intrigued by the latest craze for adult coloring books. Did you know that in April, 2 of the top 10 books on Amazon were adult coloring books? That’s insane!!

Artistic readers are likely shaking their heads and whispering how coloring has “never” been a craze. Some of you have never stopped coloring and research is showing that you are better off because of this.

Mental health therapists and children’s therapists may also be shaking their head at this latest “fad.” As a mental health therapist I have used artistic creativity in therapeutic groups but I admit I haven’t used them for myself. Vision boards, timeline collages and guided imagery are just a few methods that are helpful in therapeutic and addiction treatment settings.

October Challenge: This month I will experiment with an adult coloring book  during different emotional times (If I’m feeling angry, sad, in pain or stressed) and report on how it affected me.

In all honesty, I struggle with artistic creativity. I’m lucky if I get fancy with my eyeshadow. I scrapbooked once, and although it was very soothing, I struggle to jump back into it. I WISH I had an eye for interior design or the smooth hand of a calligrapher. But instead of focusing on my “lack” I will be grateful for what I CAN do.

To add more honesty, I get stressed easily and struggle with fibromyalgia pains. I am hoping that coloring books will add another useful tool in my self-care toolbox.

I will also share my experiences through Periscope, my favorite livestreaming site!

This is the book I will be using this month! I will also highlight some online materials that you can download for art therapy.

Are you a fan of art therapy and/or adult coloring books? Are you willing to take the challenge with me? Please join me and let me know how it works for you!