However, it appears that more and more adults are achieving a ‘zen’ way of life very successfully by reverting back to a much-loved childhood pastime: colouring.
As unusual as it sounds, adult colouring books have become quite the modern phenomenon, as one glance at Amazon’s Top 10 title list proves. Just last month, no less than five of the online retailer’s Top 10 book titles were colouring books for adults, joining popular titles such as the Fifty Shades of Grey series.
While this trend may be difficult to get your head around, it comes as no surprise to experts in the field of psychology, who reckon that colouring is one of the most effective pastimes when it comes to relaxing.
According to clinical psychologist Dr David Holmes, adults have been drawn to colouring in times of extreme stress because of its connection with nostalgia and relaxation.
“Colouring is an ambient activity that gives the brain something simple to focus on, so it doesn’t become boring or frustrating,” said Dr Holmes.
This is certainly the case for mum Fiona Chow, a 36-year-old communications consultant based in London. With a hectic career, Fiona sought many ways to de-stress and relax at home, and discovered the therapeutic powers of colouring quite by accident.
When Fiona’s son, Maximus, was given a pack of felt-tips pens that were unsuitable for his age, she absentmindedly picked them up one night and decided to give colouring a go. Two hours later, Fiona was not only enjoying herself, but she was ‘completely relaxed’.
And Fiona is just one of thousands who are turning to colouring to de-stress after a hard day at home or in the office.
Have you tried adult colouring? If not, would you be tempted to now give it a go?
