Mindfulness and Colouring
In 2023 we began working with artists in the UK and USA to create a series of more than 200 beautifully illustrated adult colouring books, to help us raise funds so we can continue supporting people living with BPD. This venture was two-fold – as an organisation with no paid staff we do of course need to fundraise, but we also wanted to create something that would be useful in people’s recovery journey.
Colouring used to be seen as a children’s activity, something creative that they could sit and get on with, and could develop their fine motor skills by encouraging them to stay between the lines. But colouring is now seen as a therapeutic practice, something which aids in reducing stress and promotes mindfulness. In today’s busy world our minds become cluttered with responsibilities, distractions and worries, leaving us little room for gaining some inner peace. This is compounded further by the presence of BPD and the effect it has on the way we think.
By focusing our attention on the present moment, and the intricate patterns of a colouring page, we can learn to quieten the incessant chatter of the mind and tap into a deeply relaxed state.
Mindfulness, rooted in ancient Buddhist traditions, is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment without judgment. It involves paying deliberate attention to our thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise, developing a sense of clarity and inner peace. Colouring serves as a gateway to mindfulness by providing a tangible and accessible way to anchor our awareness in the here and now.
One of the key principles of mindfulness is awareness of breath. As we colour, we can synchronize our breath with each stroke of the pencil or crayon, allowing the rhythmic motion to guide us into a state of calmness and centeredness. The repetitive nature of colouring also encourages a sense of flow, where time seems to stand still, and worries fade away into the background.
Furthermore, colouring engages both hemispheres of the brain, stimulating creativity and logic simultaneously. This dual activation promotes cognitive balance and harmony, fostering a sense of integration between our analytical and intuitive faculties. As a result, we may experience greater mental clarity and insight into our thoughts and emotions.
In addition to its psychological benefits, colouring can have a profound impact on our physiological well-being. Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities like colouring can reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and promote the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood-enhancing chemicals. This can lead to a decrease in anxiety and an overall improvement in mood and emotional resilience.
Moreover, colouring can be a form of self-expression and self-care. The choice of colours, patterns, and designs allows us to tap into our unique preferences and instincts, providing a channel for personal expression and exploration. It offers a space for introspection and reflection, where we can connect with our innermost thoughts and feelings in a gentle and non-intrusive manner.
Incorporating mindfulness through colouring into our daily routine doesn’t require a significant time commitment or special skills. It can be as simple as setting aside a few minutes each day to engage in this calming practice, whether it’s during a coffee break, before bedtime, or as a part of a structured mindfulness meditation session. The key is to approach colouring with an open mind and a willingness to be fully present with the experience.
As we embrace the therapeutic power of colouring, we embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation. Through the mindful act of colouring, we can cultivate a deeper sense of presence, compassion, and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed or stressed, pick up a colouring book, and let the colours guide you back to a place of peace and harmony within yourself.