 I've said many times how colouring is brilliant for helping mental health issues, and I've managed to find a colouring book designed by an actual art therapist! Karen Stabley has worked in counselling since the 80s, helping families, sexually-abused teenage girls and psychiatric inpatients through group art therapy. She now has her own practice in Pennsylvania, so has years of experience in how art can impact your life and help you to thrive. This book was initially intended for her patients to take home and relax with in between sessions. What she has created is primarily a colouring book of course, but with a difference. Each illustration has an affirmation, a short sentence designed to 'inspire and release your creative energy'. I like phrases incorporated with colouring, and if they make me feel good then all the better! If you're looking for a colouring book that has been designed to help calm anxiety and nerves, take a look inside and see what you think. There are 26 designs in the book which doesn't sound like much, but the paper (card) is so thick that it makes for quite a substantial book. This means you can use any medium you want- even paint- to really let your creative juices flow. The drawings themselves do seem a little rudimentary, and that's my only qualm with this book to be honest. A good thing is that the illustrations aren't made up of tiny spaces, so if you prefer large areas to colour or have problems with fine motor control, this would be a great book for you. There is a variation of line thicknesses, but most of the pictures are finished in a medium bold black. The book is spiral bound, which is my preferred format in colouring books. Here's my picture, coloured with Spectrum Noir. The quote is, "I allow prosperity and abundance!" which is very apt for me! I could do with a little lotto win, but couldn't we all?!  I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. You can find it on Karen's Etsy page. 
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