I am one of those people who believes hobbies will help you feel better. No wonder I work at Yurek; we have seven different blog posts on that topic! Sometimes, I go back to activities I enjoyed as a child, like colouring, which comes with many benefits.

Research shows that colouring is therapeutic because it may help relieve anxiety and depression. One study by Creative Research Journal, involving 120 older adults, showed that 20 minutes of mandala colouring significantly relieved feelings of anxiety compared to similar activities. Even though any type of colouring book is beneficial, the shape of mandalas, which are complex and unique in design, helps make them particularly relaxing.

Colouring can also help improve fine motor skills. Think back to when you were in preschool and elementary school; you probably did lots of colouring. As an adult, colouring can help you maintain fine motor skills and dexterity, especially if you’re at an age where you’re experiencing shaking and tremors.

In addition, colouring gives you a mental workout. It utilizes your ability to focus, make decisions, and problem-solve. You don’t need a lot of tools either, just some markers or pencil crayons, and a colouring book. So next time you’re looking for a relaxing activity, consider picking up some markers and colouring your problems away!

By Michelle Gauthier, Senior Accountant