Do your attempts to meditate end with an internal dialogue about the absurdity of the lotus position?
Scientists have found an unexpected replacement for mindfulness practice that doesn't require closing your eyes or controlling your breathing.
In the mid-2010s, millions of adults suddenly became obsessed with coloring intricate patterns, turning a childhood hobby into a stress-busting tool.
It turns out that filling abstract compositions of geometric shapes or fractals with color produces an effect comparable to deep relaxation.
Experiments have confirmed that symmetrical patterns reduce anxiety levels more effectively than free drawing.
The rhythmic repetition of lines creates a visual order that makes concentration easier and drowns out external stimuli.
Monotonous movements of the pencil switch attention from restless thoughts to tactile sensations - pressure on the paper, roughness of the surface, smoothness of the strokes.
Neurologists note that such activity stimulates areas of the brain responsible for creativity and focus.
Unlike meditation, where it is important not to “cling” to ideas, coloring allows you to focus on a specific task without requiring you to suppress your internal monologue.
This makes the process accessible even to those who find classical spiritual practices boring or overwhelming.
The physical aspect of coloring is often underestimated. Switching between shades, holding a pencil, evaluating proportions - all this gently activates the body without overloading it.
For people who are disconnected from their own physical sensations due to stress or trauma, this format becomes a bridge between the mind and the body's reactions.
The simplicity of the actions does not cause perfectionism: mistakes are not scary here, and the result pleases immediately.
The secret to the popularity of coloring books is their everyday magic. They don’t teach you how to relax “correctly,” but simply give your hands work while your brain quietly reboots.
Sometimes it is enough to choose a bright color and start painting the first cell for anxiety to recede.
Author: Elena Shimanovskaya