What is the Science Behind the Relaxing Effect of Coloring?
January 30, 2025
Kids enjoy coloring and view it as a great way to spend their free time. But coloring has far reaching effects on human minds than most average pastime activities. It has calming effects on human minds. You can notice the change in mood and reduction of stress when you see a kid sitting down to color a page or a book. Now seeing this it is easy to wonder what might be the reasons that lay behind. Here we will discuss the science behind the calming effect of coloring.
Coloring and Effects on Brain
Coloring requires activations of different parts of the brain. Here are parts of the brain that are active when engaged in coloring.Prefrontal Cortex
The prefrontal cortex is part of the frontal lobe of the brain. It encompasses a wide range of vital functions such as speech formation, decision making and risk assessment. So when coloring there are decisions about which color to use and how to use them. As a result coloring activates the prefrontal cortex of the brain. This also provides focus without worries.Visual Cortex
Part of the cerebral cortex that processes visual information from the retina. Visual cortex is responsible for processing colors, shapes and patterns. So when you engage in activities such as coloring, the visual cortex of the brain lights up. By analyzing and planning on how to bring the shapes to life with color this sensory process induces a calming effect.Amygdala
A small nut shaped grey matter inside of the brain. This part of the brain processes emotions, especially situations related to anxiety and fear. The most notable aspect of amygdala is the fight or flight response system. Coloring leads to the reduction of activities in the amygdala. This aids in reducing anxiety and inducing calmness.Color and Emotion
Researchers have discovered the effects of various colors on human emotion with numerous studies. Colors play a vital role in making the coloring process more relaxing and enjoyable. Different color tones can indicate a different mood of a person.- Cooler Colors: Cooler shades of colors invokes a calmness. Blue, green and purples are known for expressing serenity. They indicate a relaxed mood which is synonymous to reduced anxiety level.
- Warmer Colors: Warmer tones of colors are analogous to expressing a vibrant mood. They indicate feelings of happiness. Moreover they are also symbols of energy and power.
- Personal Choice: Various people act differently toward different colors. It boils down to previous personal experience associated with the color. So a color that is related to positive events from past experience is a great option for relaxation.