Nothing feels more like a roller coaster than facing adulthood with the limitations of being disabled. I have been so stressed about every single thing lately. Small tasks always end up being bigger tasks. I never have enough money. I have to rely on others for most things. I honestly don’t feel useful in the household. I wish I could be as carefree as a child.

There are many stress relief techniques I enjoy doing; however, coloring therapy is my favorite. Coloring in coloring books has helped make my anxiety disappear. I am only focusing on creativity when I am coloring. Creativity is what keeps me succeeding as a writer. Nothing is worse than having writer’s block on top of daily stress. Coloring a simple picture helps me reconnect with my inner child and reboot my thought process.

Coloring has also helped me improve my physical health. I have Cerebral Palsy. Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disorder that primarily affects body movement and muscle coordination. I deal with a lot of muscle pain. I type with one finger because my hands are too tight. I work my hands out by holding a coloring pencil and focusing on staying in the lines. The more complicated the picture is, the more opportunity to improve my fine motor skills. Plus, coloring therapy is less expensive than regular occupational therapy.

Coloring therapy has been so impactful in my life, and I believe it can be for so many others too. If you want to see for yourself, here are my top favorite adult coloring books:

1. Enchanted Forest: An Inky Quest and Cooling Book by Johanna Basford
2. Disney Princess Art of Coloring by Catherine Saunier-Talec and Anne Le Meur
3. Disney Dreams Collection by Thomas Kinkade
4. Creative Haven Magnificent Mermaids Coloring Book by Marjorie Sarnat
5. Married Life: A Snarky Adult Coloring Book by Papeterie Bleu
6. I’m not Weird I am Limited Edition: Good Vibes Adults Coloring Book by Jupiter Coloring
7. You Are Fucking Awesome: A Motivating Swear Word Coloring Book for Adults by Charla Bond
8. Myth & Magic: An Enchanted Fantasy Coloring Book by Kinuko Y. Craft
9. Magic Autumn. Halloween Grayscale Coloring Book by Alena Larazeva
10. Unicorn Coloring Book by Jade Summer