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Are adult coloring books good for mental health?

Coloring offers many benefits for mental health, particularly in reducing stress and anxiety after a long day of work or school. Similar to meditating, coloring allows us to focus our mind and engage in mindfulness. Dr Fenkel explains, "The repetitive motion of filling in shapes with color can soothe your mind, allowing you to temporarily set aside worries or stressors that might be weighing you down."

Because the activity itself is very low stakes, it is a perfect way to unwind. You can focus as much or as little as you like, and for however long you choose. "When choosing colors and filling in a design, your brain can take a break from the overthinking that often contributes to stress," Dr. Fenkel says. "It’s a way of giving yourself permission to pause, slow down, and reconnect with a sense of calm."

Not only does it help with de-stressing, it can also contribute to help processing your emotions. "The creative expression involved in coloring can also help you process emotions. Even though it might seem simple, the colors you choose and how you apply them can reflect your inner state," according to Dr. Fenkel.

"Coloring isn’t just a pleasant pastime, but also a small but effective tool for managing stress, nurturing mental well-being, and cultivating peace in a busy world, " Dr. Fenkel says.

So sit back, relax, grab your markers or pencils, and start coloring!

Find Your New Favorite Adult Coloring Book Here!

Yournotes Publishing Mindfulness Coloring Book For Adults

This book offers a wide variety of animals and flowers to choose from! The intricate patterns encourage you to pay attention to detail and let you get super creative with your color choices! This book gives you 50 different patterns to color in, so you have enough to last for a while, too.

Crayola Flower Coloring Book

This 40 page adult coloring book is a breath of fresh, floral air. Made by Crayola, AKA coloring book royalty, you know the quality on this book is gonna be good. These gorgeous illustrations are on perforated pages as well, so you can tear out your favorites to share on your fridge!

Adult Swear Words Coloring Book

Sometimes you just gotta laugh, you know? These 40 single-sided pages are full of swear words and illustrations to help you take the edge off. Some designs are more simple, some are more intricate, and all are a real good time. And if you don't believe me, this adult coloring book has 4.6 stars out of over 3,000 ratings!

Kytefox Publishing Stress Relief Adult Coloring Book

This book features larger images, which is perfect if you’re not a fan of smaller details. It has a very nature-inspired and mystical vibe, so if that’s your style, this coloring book would be perfect for you! There are a total of 60 designs to color in, so you've got a lot to work with while you wind down.

RYVE Adult Coloring Book for Women

This adult coloring book is "thoughtfully designed to provide a peaceful, mindful experience, combining the joy of coloring with the power of introspection." Each illustration is paired with personal growth prompts, so you can ground yourself even more. This book features bleed-resistant paper, so you don't have to worry about accidentally coloring over your prompts for tomorrow.

Cozy Friends: Coloring Book for Adults and Teens

This adult coloring book is perfect for a sweet, cute little vibe! I’ve seen these little characters all over TikTok, and they’re just so adorable! I love the characters and all the cute settings the book places them in. Each of the 40 pages features hand-drawn designs, so you know this one's special.

Cozy Spaces Coloring Spooky Cutie Coloring Book for Adults and Teens

With fall right around the corner, I thought it was only fitting to include a seasonally themed coloring book too! I mean could this get any cuter? You definitely wanna pick up this 40 illustration book ASAP!

Mindfulness Patterns: Coloring Book with Creative Pattern Designs for Stress Relief and Relaxation

Mindfulness really is the big goal with these adult coloring books. This one has 50 illustrations on single-sided pages, and features "a variety of shapes and zentangle doodle patterns." Don't know what "zentangle patterns" are? Me either! According to Zentangle.com, these are images created by drawing structured patterns — cool!

Large Print Easy Color & Frame - Stress Free Adult Coloring Book

This adult coloring book is spiral bound with larger print — again, that's really helpful for folks who wanna worry less about coloring in all the intricate, tiny little lines. There are 31 coloring pages, with each being one-sided and perforated. Plus, this well-loved book (4.7 stars out of almost 5,000 reviews) features thicker paper to prevent bleed-through.

Markers, Pens, And Pencils For Your Adult Coloring Books

SFAIH Brush Tip Alcohol Markers Set

Hands down, this is the best marker set on Amazon for a reasonable price! It’s always helpful to have both thick and fine tips to cover larger or smaller areas of the page. I also love the variety of shades within the same color, and they're all SUPER cute!

Caliart 34 Double Tip Brush Pens Art Markers

This is another excellent marker option if you’re looking for an even finer tip! These are perfect if your coloring books have teeny-tiny details, and if you’re a perfectionist (like me) who loves to stay inside the lines.

Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books

If you’re more of a colored pencil girl than a marker girl, I highly recommend this 72-piece colored pencil set. They have every color you could ever need! Plus, colored pencils are great for blending if you want to get a bit more technical with it.

Artownlar Premium 72 Colored Pencils with Coloring Books Set

Finally, if you’re always on the go or want to color while traveling, you should grab a coloring book set! It comes with everything you need and is perfect for bringing on a road trip, to the park, or even as a thoughtful gift for a friend!

"Our collections are a homage to the rich Scandinavian design identity that we cherish and aim to preserve," says a rep from IKEA Sweden. There are also some vintage prints in the mix. Try our easy pencil skirt pattern for a fun summer skirt.

Storage hack: Use these bold prints to cover boring cardboard boxes and add a leather handle for a chic and practical use.

Learn how to reupholster an ottoman and pick fun IKEA fabrics to create a statement piece.

You can never have too many tote bags, right? This floral pattern would make for a cute and colorful market tote!

Try this animal print in our most adorable hugs and kisses pillows. New to sewing? Try our sewing class!

Practice your sewing skills by making a simple overalls dress! This fabric would be perfect.

Box Covers

Wrap them like gift wrap around shoe boxes using a staple gun for another easy storage hack.

A small print like this black and white check is great for small projects like a pencil pouch.

Colorful stripes are perfect for a pillowcase pattern (via PurlSoho), where you just stitch two rectangles of fabric together (standard size is 20 by 26 inches) right sides together. Then hem the opening!

Wall Organizer

This wall organizer is another easy DIY, where you can sew the rectangle around the dowel, or iron the edges with no-sew hem tape. Hand-sew or machine stitch the pockets, making sure to fold under the edges for a cleaner look!

Planter

This drawstring planter cover is a cute idea for covering ho-hum planters or vases.

Traveling with a kiddo? Keep them comfy with this sweet travel pillow pattern from Joann's.

A great first sewing project is this crop top in this fun purple check!

No Sew Covered Canvas

Probably the easiest way to use this fabric is by staple-gunning it around a canvas for an easy and creative art piece!

Protect your laptops with a fabric case in a bold striped pattern. This fabric would also make a great curtain!

OMG, how cute! Make your pet a bed (via Joann's) in a playful print you'll both love.

Learning the straight stitch on your sewing machine will get you very far. New seat cushions in every room!

I never met a tassel I didn't love. Add bright colored tassels to this B&W print.

Toss your toiletries in something handmade with thistravel bag pattern.

Pocket Patch

Pocket patterns are great for adding to furniture and clothes. This top-stitched one is handy for holding the remote, emergency snack bag, or a small book.

Italian Hand Pies

Follow this exact recipe for a fully vegan Christmas appetizer, or choose your own adventure by making swaps for the plant-based picks. No matter how you make them, these savory hand pies will taste amazing for a pre-dinner snack.

Chocolate-Covered Cheese Bites

You'd never guess it, but certain kinds of chocolates and cheeses work well together, kind of like snack and wine pairings. This appetizer-ready recipe combines Parmigiano Reggiano and bitter dark chocolate for a mind-blowingly merry munchie.

Greek Stuffed Mushrooms

To make these bite-sized Christmas appetizers, you'll essentially stuff mushrooms full of the contents of Greek salad. That means this pick is super healthy, but also super customizable, too. If you'd rather stuff your mushrooms with melty cheese, there's nothing stopping you!

Sesame Shrimp Puffs

This savory, layered snack takes flavor inspiration from Asian dishes, which will totally make it a standout among the more traditional holiday dishes you're serving this season.

Butter Candles

If you make a butter candle as a Christmas appetizer, just know it's gonna be the talk of the table. When lit, it will not only generate some seriously melty butter to dip crusty bread in, but it will add to the cozy Christmas dinner ambience, burning warm light.

Bacon Pastry Twists with Beer Cheese Dip

All you have to say is "cheese dip," and your dinner guests will flock to the snack area. To complete the appetizer, make these easy bacon twists that are crafted with pre-made pastry dough. (via Brit + Co.)

Keto Cheese Ball

Keto or not, you'll be blown away by this cheese ball. It's covered in chives and bacon crumbles, the ultimate duo to pair with crunchy crackers.

Spinach Dip

Spinach dip is a no-fail Christmas appetizer. You can serve it hot or cold, and it's going to be delicious every single time.

Smoked Salmon Poke Bites

If you love sushi but don't want to eat a whole roll before Christmas dinner, this appetizer is the perfect pick for you. With smoked salmon, rice, avocado, and onions, everyone will want more of these delicious bites. They're super easy to customize too, so you can leave out (or add) whatever toppings you want.

Baked French Onion Meatballs

Meatballs are one of the greatest Christmas appetizers because they're bite-sized and delicious. We'd definitely consider that a win-win. This French-themed recipe features cremini mushrooms, garlic, and gruyere cheese for some seriously rich flavor.

Vegan Butter Board Recipe

Butter boards are one TikTok trend that we can totally get behind, and this updated version gives the dish a sweet (and healthy) twist with vegan butter and plenty of berries. Coconut flakes and almonds add some texture, but if your guests have allergies, simply leave them off!

Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes

This delicious Christmas appetizer is a great way to complement the all kinds of recipes that you'll be having throughout the holiday season. Since they take less than an hour to make, they're great as a pre-dinner snack while the ham is in the oven. They're easy, they're delicious, and they're Paleo!

Beet Hummus

Add some vibrant color to your holiday appetizer game with this superfood dip. Dress it up with festive veggies like rainbow carrots, watermelon radish, and golden beets. Talk about eye candy!

Sweet Potato + Feta + Honey Appetizer

This holiday appetizer provides a mouthwatering balance between sweet and salty that will definitely make its way to your table year after year. Spice it up with some extra seasoning or leave it as-is based on your preference. Either way, don't worry about setting out the Tupperware — you won't have any leftovers!

Vegan Baked Brie Recipe

Baked brie is one of our favorite Christmas appetizers, but if you usually can't take part in the creamy goodness, have no fear. This vegan recipe swaps regular cheese for a cashew-based alternative. You can use cashews to make a convincingly creamy dip, and the nutritional yeast in this pick gives it a cheesy flavor that's almost too good to be true.

Vegetable Pinwheels

You can make these cream cheese and veggie pinwheels with any filling you prefer, making it a dish that gives you a ton of variety at the snack table. They're so colorful, too! Try this Christmas appetizer with different types of wraps or try filling them with fruit for even more snackage.

Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Poppers

These flaky, cheesy, and spicy poppers are *the* go-to Christmas appetizer idea when you want big flavor, but are short on time. Use veggie cream cheese instead of regular to give this snack a fuller flavor.

Cranberry Brie Pastry Tarts

What's more festive than cranberries and brie? Bright, cheery, and just a bit sweet, this Christmas appetizer recipe is exactly what any party needs to get going. And they're simple to make, too!

Red Cooking Wine Caramelized Onion Baked Brie

Baked brie is not only a fan-favorite Christmas hors d'oeuvre, but it's quick to throw in the oven while you're working on your other appetizers. This recipe uses caramelized onions and a little bit of wine to bring out the flavors of the cheese. We love eating this cheese with crackers and fruit.

Vegan Smoked “Salmon” Cheese Rolls

If you love the elegance of sushi but don't want to leave fish out all night, this might be the best Christmas appetizer recipe for you. You'll never guess what the vegan salmon is made from. These are also a great way to make sure any vegan family members at the party aren't excluded.

Citrus Marinated Olives and Feta

For something tangy and savory to snack on, look no further than this recipe. Besides being full of tasty flavor, telling your family that you marinated your own olives will make for a toothsome conversation starter!

Need Menu Ideas? Steal These Christmas Finger Food Recipes.

Let's save the forks and knives for dinner! Finger foods are easy for both prep and clean up. All you need is a few small plates and napkins, and your friends and family can enjoy these holiday appetizers at their leisure. Finger foods are also great for kids because they're often bite-sized, but that doesn't mean that everyone can't enjoy them! From bacon-wrapped scallops to Chinese chicken egg rolls, don't be surprised if these Christmas appetizers leave your guests speechless.

Holiday Pomegranate Guacamole on Roasted Sweet Potato Toasts

What's red and green and sweet underneath? These festive Christmas party appetizers topped with pomegranate seeds and guacamole! With so many different consistencies and flavors coming together, this recipe really provides an appetizer experience like no other.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Shrimp cocktail is always a hit — especially when you serve it in a fancy glass! These shrimp are served with a zesty cocktail sauce and to add that Mexican flair, they're topped with a refreshing tomato and avocado relish to make them a holiday appetizer recipe to remember.

Vegan Walnut, Sage, and Cranberry Stuffed Holiday Mushrooms

Mushrooms were meant to be stuffed — and when you pop one of these tasty and easy holiday appetizers into your mouth, you'll agree. The nutty, herbaceous, and slightly sweet filling creates a palate pleaser that will wow all your friends.

Charcuterie Wreath

The only thing we love more than a Christmas appetizer is a themed Christmas appetizer, and this charcuterie wreath is just perf! It's a cute (and festive) take on the usual cheese board. Use plenty of rosemary sprigs for some greenery and throw in a few chocolate pieces for good measure.

Bacon-Wrapped Scallops With Cajun Cream Sauce

The bacon-wrapped scallop is kicked up with a creamy and dreamy Cajun sauce. This is one recipe that's tasty enough to be made all year long!

Maple Rosemary Roasted Nuts

Warm, aromatic roasted nuts help you stay cozy when it's cold outside, and the maple and rosemary flavors in this holiday hors d'oeuvre work so nicely together. Not only do these make a tasty appetizer, but you can fill your go-to candy jar with them for a snack all holiday season long.

Chinese Chicken and Brussels Sprouts Egg Rolls + Sweet Chile Pomegranate Sauce

You've never seen egg rolls like this. The crispy egg rolls become swoon-worthy bites when mixed with the sweet, tart pomegranate dipping sauce. Since pomegranates are in season in wintertime, make sure to get a few to make some extra holiday recipes.

Crispy Caprese Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella

We understand that people share a deep love for crock pots full of Swedish meatballs, but these babies take the cake. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella, these meatballs will totally become a holiday tradition.

Try These Delicious Dip Ideas For Christmas Eve!

By the time Christmas Eve comes around, you've probably already made half a dozen appetizers for your office party, your friend's White Elephant gift exchange, and your family's Christmas dinner. If you're feeling burnt out on regular finger foods, go for a dip instead! Dips are a great way to make a customizable appetizer that everyone will be able to enjoy. Make some sweet and savory dips to give guests a few different options, and pair 'em with your favorite cracker, veggie, or even cookies. Chef's kiss!

Cheesy Artichoke Dip

A party just isn't a party without a melty dip! Get ready for a little extra indulgence with this ooey-gooey mixture that's packed with plump artichokes and topped with toasty breadcrumbs for an easy Christmas appetizer. Our mouths are watering!

Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball

A pop of dried cranberries makes this holiday cheese ball a tart and savory Christmas-themed appetizer to make for your next holiday bash. It's an unconventional take on a cheese ball that uses your favorite traditional holiday ingredients.

Curry Hummus

Why have run-of-the-mill appetizers for a Christmas party when you can have curry hummus? This recipe is easy to follow, even if you've never made your own hummus before. We love to dip carrots and cucumbers, but the veggies you pick are totally up to you.

Bacon Wrapped Potatoes with Warm Apple Cream Cheese Dip

The apple cream cheese dip paired with these fluffy and crunchy potato bites will add a nice, sweet touch to your Christmas dinner table. It's safe to say that no one else will have an appetizer quite like this!

Cheesy Chicken Fritters

What's better than tender chicken, mozzarella that help prepare your taste buds for Christmas dinner? We highly suggest you cook this easy recipe.

Vegan Jalapeno Poppers

If you want something that's cheesy and gluten-free, try prepping these vegan jalapeño poppers for a spicy Christmas appetizer idea.

Hot Cheesy Spinach Dip

This tasty spinach dip is the icing on the cake for all the other holiday appetizers you'll be serving. Just ensure that you bake it to bubble perfection, that way your cheese pulls will be epic.

Southern Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a southern staple that 1000% deserve a seat at your Christmas table this year. The salty, crunchy outer contrasts beautifully with the tender inner veg, but the real magic lies within the dipping sauce you make to serve this app.

Olive Artichoke Crostini

If the idea of eating a finger sandwich doesn't sound fancy enough for your holiday soiree, this olive + artichoke crostini recipe is going to hit the spot. This Christmas appetizer is unbelievably easy too customize, too, so you can accomodate for the vegans and vegetarians in your life.

Bang Bang Chicken

This recipe is a take on Bonefish Grill's famous Bang Bang Shrimp – yum! What makes this holiday appetizer recipe extra-special is that it doesn't exclude those who may have a seafood allergy, using chicken instead.

Shrimp Cocktail

Should you have some seafood-lovers stopping by on Christmas, cater directly to them by whipping up this quick and easy shrimp cocktail recipe! Here's how to make it:

(via Clamato)

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, deveined and chopped
• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• ½ cup Clamato®
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 Hass avocado, diced
• ½ mango, diced (optional)
• Cilantro for garnish

Directions:

1. In a bowl, add the lemon juice, olive oil, cilantro, sugar, Clamato, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir for a few seconds and set the salsa aside.
3. Add in the avocado, mango (if you like mango), and shrimp.
4. Put the shrimp in a schooner-type glass and pour salsa on top.
5. Garnish with cilantro and serve.