According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy is a mental health profession in which the process of making and creating artwork is used to "explore feelings, reconcile emotional conflicts, foster self-awareness, manage behavior and addictions, develop social skills, improve reality orientation, reduce anxiety and increase self-esteem."
Coloring is relaxing and may reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD. But the benefits of coloring are not the same as art therapy or creating art.There are few daily activities that can improve your mood, productivity, and ability to cope with stress as much as getting enough high-quality sleep - and coloring before you go to bed can help.
Coloring makes an excellent pre-bedtime ritual, and it's healthier than the usual alternative.