Coloring Is a Great Relaxation Tool for Kids and Adults Alike

When you aren't well-rested, nothing feels right. Without the energy and sense of calm that result from a good night's sleep, it's hard for kids and adults to be focused and productive. You may feel edgy and even grumpy. Art therapy -- or, simply, coloring -- can help.
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When you aren't well-rested, nothing feels right. Without the energy and sense of calm that result from a good night's sleep, it's hard for kids and adults to be focused and productive. You may feel edgy and even grumpy. Art therapy -- or, simply, coloring -- can help.

Art Therapy and Carl Jung
Art therapy is not new; in fact, Carl Jung was a fan of this relaxation technique for his patients -- and himself -- in the early 1900s. Jung used to draw and color mandalas (spiritual geometric shapes).

Art Therapy
Coloring has always been popular with children, and now adults are also finding it's a great way to unwind. Coloring is a low-stress, meditative activity that allows you to focus, calm down and release your creative potential. It's also very popular because it is non-competitive.

Coloring Books for Adults and Children
Many high-quality coloring books are available with a huge variety of designs, patterns and themes for adults and children. One popular book is "The Can't Sleep Colouring Book," which has a large assortment of images to color, including planets, unicorns, mountains, flowers, animals and geometrics. "The RxArt Coloring Book" is another book that was designed to help people relax, especially children going into the hospital. The artists that created the book say it enhances the healing process in addition to easing anxiety. If you want to follow Carl Jung's lead, you might like "Magical Mystical Mandalas Coloring Book: Spiritually Healing Mandalas to Color." Other interesting and soothing books are "Paris Coloring Book," "Animal Sleep Stories Coloring Book," "The Art of Nature Coloring Book" and "Flower Designs Coloring Book."

Crayons, Markers, Pencils
When it comes to coloring materials, there are also many fun options. From glitter crayons, and fine line and broad line markers, to metallic coloring pencils, there is something for everyone..

If you're having trouble calming your mind and getting the rest you need, try coloring. Look into the different coloring books that are out there and choose one that interests you. An hour before you plan to go to sleep, dim the lights slightly, get comfortable, put on some relaxing music and color away. People of all ages are being pleasantly surprised when they find they sleep better and are enjoying a fun, creative activity at the end of a busy day.

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