Finding Joy and Zen: Coloring While Traveling

Traveling is an adventure, a chance to explore new places and cultures. But let's be honest, it can also be a little… a lot. Long flights, unexpected delays, and the constant go-go-go can leave even the most seasoned traveler feeling a bit frazzled.

A creative passport to calm

Now picture an incredibly calming activity that helps you find your zen no matter where your journey takes you? That's right, we're talking about coloring!

Coloring isn't just for kids with a box of crayons anymore. It's a powerful tool for mindfulness, stress relief, and pure, unadulterated joy for adults. And with the rise of digital apps and more inclusive coloring supplies, it's easier than ever to bring this delightful pastime along for the ride.

Why coloring is your perfect travel companion?

Beyond just being a fun pastime, coloring offers a myriad of benefits that are especially valuable when you're on the move:

• Stress Reduction: The repetitive motion of coloring, combined with the focus on colors and shapes, can be incredibly calming. It's a meditative activity that helps quiet a busy mind and reduce anxiety.
• Mindfulness: Coloring encourages you to be present in the moment. It pulls your attention away from worries about your itinerary or impending deadlines and grounds you in the simple act of creation.
• Boosts Creativity: Even if you don't consider yourself an artist, coloring allows you to express your creativity. There are no right or wrong answers, just your unique interpretation of the image.
• Portable and Accessible: Whether it's an app on your phone or a small coloring book and a few pencils, coloring is incredibly easy to pack and pull out whenever you have a spare moment.
• Screen-Free Entertainment (for traditional coloring): While digital apps are great, sometimes it's nice to take a break from screens. Traditional coloring offers a wonderful alternative for downtime.

The digital delight: Coloring apps for on-the-go zen

Imagine this: you're on a crowded train, or perhaps waiting for your flight to board. Instead of scrolling mindlessly, you pull out your phone or tablet and dive into a world of vibrant hues and intricate designs. Digital coloring apps are a game-changer for travelers, offering endless possibilities right at your fingertips.

Here are a few favorite apps to get you started:

• Zen Color: As the name suggests, this app is all about finding your inner calm. With a beautiful array of mandalas, nature scenes, and abstract designs, Zen Color is perfect for unwinding and focusing your mind. We love the travel themed images sprinkled throughout the categories. The intuitive interface makes it easy to choose colors and fill in sections, creating stunning masterpieces with minimal effort.
• Black Color Paint by Number: If you love the satisfaction of seeing a picture come to life with each carefully placed color, then "Paint by Number" apps are for you. This app offers a great selection of images of Black people living everyday life. It's incredibly satisfying to watch the artwork emerge as you match the numbers to the colors.
• Black Coloring Book: This app provides a wide variety of coloring pages, from intricate patterns to whimsical Black characters. It's a great option for those who want to keep their coloring adventures fresh and exciting.

The beauty of digital coloring? Doesn't take up precious space if you're carry-on only. No mess, no lost pencils (unless you use a digital one), and an endless supply of pages. Plus, you can easily share your creations with friends and family, showing off your artistic flair from anywhere in the world!

Unplug and unwind: Traditional coloring on the go

While digital coloring is amazing, there's something incredibly satisfying about the tactile experience of putting pencil to paper. For those moments when you want to truly disconnect and embrace a more traditional approach, offline coloring books and supplies are your best friends.

Coloring books that center you

When searching for your next book, consider supporting these amazing Black-owned brands that consistently feature beautiful images of Black people:

Pro Tip: When a full 8x11-sized book might feel like too much, consider looking for a 5.8 x 8.3 inch book. Takes up less space on a transit tray table leaving room for your pencils, markers or crayons.

And what about your coloring tools?

Coloring pencils are the most convenient and versatile compared to crayons or markers. Pack an eraser and sharpener in a case with them.

• Crayola Colors of the World pencils: You're the main character, and your colors should reflect this! This set is a great choice for casual colorers to have a range of skin tones to color Black people with African ancestry beautifully in your artwork. 
• Shades of Brown colored pencils: For an alternative that directly supports a Black-owned business, check out the Shades of Brown colored pencils offered by Entrepreneurs Color Too. They feature 12 shades with fun names that reflect Black culture.
• Prismacolor portrait set: For those who are serious about their coloring and want to achieve stunning depth and blending, the Prismacolor portrait set is an excellent investment. These higher-quality pencils offer rich pigmentation and smooth application, allowing you to create truly professional-looking results.

So, the next time you're packing your bags for an adventure, don't forget to pack your colors! Whether you prefer the convenience of digital apps or the satisfying feel of pencils on paper, coloring is a solid way to add a splash of joy, a dose of calm, and a touch of creativity to your travels. And explore Asali Origins Self-Care Collection to keep those peaceful vibes flowing.

Happy coloring, and happy travels!