These "coloring books" were created to help people experience a level of calm that exceeds what's obtainable with just coloring. For each image, there is a breathing exercise or meditative exercise that amplifies the level of calm experienced. ​During stress or panic, the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the fight-or-flight response, is in overdrive. Slow, deep breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system (the system that promotes relaxation, digestion, and recovery). Deep breathing lowers heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and sends signals to the brain that there is no immediate danger, kinda' like gently pressing the brakes on a speeding car to regain control.

By pairing coloring with slow, rhythmic breathing, you create a two-part system that helps reset both the brain and body. As you focus on filling in a design, your mind becomes anchored in a calming, repetitive activity. When combined with deep, controlled breathing, this practice strengthens the connection between the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala, improving emotional regulation over time.

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One of the GREATEST benefits of this combination is the control you learn you have. See, calm is sort of a learned (or rather, relearned) behavior. The more you practice the breathing techniques while you color, the more your mind gets used to the state of relaxation. It will then start to associate the feeling with the breathing technique you're doing. So essentially, you are teaching your mind to access this calmness ANY time you begin to do the breathing technique it's associated with. 

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The Children's Books include a short metaphorical story focused on an age appropriate struggle (emotions, control, fear, anger, etc.). Each story has a simple breathing technique and an image associated with the story for the child to color as they practice the breathing technique taught. The stories are engaging, full of funny characters, and there are a few laughs in there for adults too. Grab a book for yourself and your child and enjoy a rainy Saturday relaxing with your kids!