One of the reasons adult coloring books have become so popular is that they’re an inexpensive, natural, and effective way to deal with anxiety and depression. As someone who struggles with both of these issues, I know an hour spent coloring has great therapeutic benefits. I have about 40 books in my collection at the moment, but I’m especially fond of inspirational titles like Creative Haven’s Chalkboard Art Coloring Book when I’m feeling blue. (The “Believe in Yourself” image at the bottom of this post is one of my favorites from the book.)
Although coloring is wonderful all by itself, you can increase its soothing properties by diffusing essential oil in your work space. Lately, I’ve been diffusing lavender essential oil from New York Biology. This is an affordably priced high quality oil that smells amazing. I especially like the dropper cap this brand comes with. This makes it so much easier to dispense just the right amount of oil. With other brands I’ve tried, I always worry about wasting or spilling in the process.
The best essential oils to use for anxiety include:
- Lavender
- Rose
- Vetiver
- Ylang ylang
- Bergamot
- Chamomile
- Frankincense
- Clary sage
- Sandalwood
- Wild orange
- Lemon
Bergamot, lavender, chamomile, and ylang ylang are also recognized as natural treatments for depression.
I use a 100 ml FLYMEI coloring changing diffuser, but Amazon has a wide selection of aromatherapy diffusers to choose from, ranging form inexpensive models that are under $20 to larger and more decorative diffusers that are $50 and up. I’ve also seen lower priced diffusers for sale at select Walmart stores.
Diffusers are generally very easy to use, as long as you remember to make sure the top is secured tightly and avoid overfilling the diffuser to prevent leaks. Your oil will last a very long time, since one drop is enough for several hours of soothing aromatherapy benefits.
If you have some extra time after coloring, nothing beats a soothing aromatherapy bath. Try making DIY bath salts with 1/2 cup Epsom salt, ½ cup cup Himalayan salt, and 7-8 drops essential oil. Mix ingredients together well, then store in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid. (As a side note, bath salts make a lovely homemade gift. Decorate your jar with pretty ribbon and stickers you’ve colored from Color Your Own Stickers: Inspirations for the perfect finishing touch.)
Disclaimer: A New York Biology essential oil sample was provided for the purpose of preparing this review.
