Lately, I've been using two types books to help me relax and use a little creativity.
You don't have to be a professional artist or writer to enjoy them. (If you are, you could still give them a try.)
If you're a homeschooler or a parent looking for screen time alternatives for your older kids, this is for you!
If you're feeling stressed out, burned out, or just searching for a simple way to relax or get your creative juices flowing, then read on!
Book Type 1: Adult Coloring Books!
How many of you enjoyed breaking out your pack of crayons and filling in page after page as kids? I know I did! I often didn't have any screen-time growing up. I could spend hours coloring in those jumbo books or ones with my favorite characters in them. As I got older, my interest in them faded out as it got less challenging and the images became "too young" for me. Now, some amazing coloring books made just for adults (or I would say for middle school age skill level and up) are gaining a lot of popularity lately! The details are more intricate, the designs more "grown up".
Art actually has therapeutic benefits and is good for your brain. It can be a sort of meditation, a positive outlet for self-expression. With these books, advanced art skills and expensive supplies are not required. Grab a pack of crayons or color pencils* and one of these books and have some fun!
(*Note: Prismacolor color pencils are my favorites. They are expensive and not necessary to enjoy these books, but as far as quality goes, they surpass all other brands I've tried. An excellent addition your birthday or holiday gift wish list!)
This book, The Creative Therapy Colouring Book, is the one I'm working on right now, but there are so many lovely options to choose from.
Book Type 2: Writing Prompts Books!
As you may have guessed, I love to write. Fun facts: I've kept a diary since I was in first grade. Before that, I was being homeschooled for Kindergarten, and I quickly learned how to write in print and begged my mom to teach me cursive because I admired her beautiful handwriting. Lucky for me, my mom taught me that too.
Even though I've always enjoyed writing, sometimes I run out of things to write about or just need a little prompting. Hey, even the best writers need inspiration!
Then I stumbled upon some wonderful books in a British bookstore that were just perfect! (Don't worry. These are easily found on Amazon too!) I recommend ordering this one- 642 Things to Write About. It contains a great range of topics-from silly to serious, very simple to complex. You can spend just a few minutes penning a couple of sentences on a simple topic or go with a more challenging one and perhaps even develop a whole story out of it.
Reader Response
Have you tried these yet? Do you have a favorite?
Is there something like these books that helps you relax or get creative?
~LadyH
** I am not getting paid to nor was I asked to promote anything mentioned in this blog post. This is my personal experience and recommendations based upon those experiences.**
