I used to spend hours as a kid quietly colouring in. I used to have Altair Design Books or Doodle Art Posters. I guess it was the equivalent of having an I-Pad. As a child/early teens these more mature colouring books were designed to keep the right creative side of the brain occupied and out of trouble, although my suspicion is I tackled them in a very left brained and methodical manner.
I don’t recall having stress and worry back then, I don’t recall having any issues going through puberty either at the time. I know some of my self doubt stems from those years but it didn’t trouble me at the time as it does now.
I don’t know what even made me google the words “Altair Design” but I did and it seems my favourite online book seller had an array of “stress-relief” and “colouring for adults” books.
I had to order some. My left (almost OCD) side of the brain cherishes a beautiful set of lakeland water colour pencils that are perfectly maintained in the colour order they arrived in one birthday alongside a similar well ordered set of Beryl felt tips.
I have to say what a wonderful de-stresssing technique it is.
Now I know colouring between the lines may not be everyone’s cup of tea but what I would encourage you to do is to consider what it was you really loved doing as a child. It might have been sedentary and detailed like sewing or colouring. Perhaps you emersed yourself into reading or perhaps a little creative writing. Maybe you just had to go outdoors and play hopscotch. Those were the times when you felt truly unstressed.
How can you recreate this in your life today?
Words and pictures copyright Reflections Coaching 2015
Carolyn Trafford is a confidence coach and speaker, if you need help managing stress, call Carolyn today on 
07714 216388 to book your free 45 minute kick start session and create the life YOU want.
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