Every where you look there is evidence that stress is an epidemic and it is serious.   One can not ignore that the leading causes of death in the U.S. all have stress related components.  Minor ailments such as high blood pressure, migraines and more site stress as an aggravating factor.  Add to that the fact that doctors estimate up to 90% of office visits are in fact related to stress and not disease. The word is no better in the work place.  it is estimated that stress costs employers over 300 billion dollars a year in absenteeism, low productivity and turn over.    Stress takes its toll on relationships and even beauty.

In light of all of this information, the overwhelming advice is RELAX.  Easier said than done for some of us.  If you  are anything like me, my mind is constantly working.  It never shuts off.  Ideas just “ping” around all day long.  I have to consciously quiet my mind.  I have tried everything from guided imagery to meditation.  I easily grow bored and itch for it to be over so I can go “do” something.   During the Summer months a day on the boat or even a trip to the beach helps me slow down.  As we approach Winter, my options become very limited.

Recently when researching stress reducing techniques, I found several articles on “Color Therapy”.  I do love to color.  My Bachelors is actually in design which was 4 years of… you guessed it… coloring.  The affects of a complex coloring book and just 15 minutes a day of coloring is truly astounding.  If you have high blood pressure, take it before and after.  You will be amazed.

If you are skeptical, here is the science.    Renowned therapist Carl Jung often had his patience color manadalas (complex geometric designs) as a way to de-stress and re-focus.  Psychologist Gloria Martínez Ayala explains that coloring is one of the few activities that incorporates both sides of the brain.  This harmony creates a natural relaxed state.  Focusing on the mechanics of the coloring process also helps to calm the mind and distract it from worry patterns.

As silly as it sounds, make coloring a part of your day for improved mental clarity, health and wellness.  Here are a few of my favorites from our friends at Amazon!  Happy Coloring!

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Sources
http://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/effects-of-stress-on-your-body
http://www.forbes.com/sites/work-in-progress/2012/08/02/stress-at-work-is-bunk-for-business/