Tips for Men Wellbeing.

TIPS FOR MEN - WELLBEING

Name: Richard Milne Age: 61
Suburb: Moss Vale

1) How did you come to learn about mindfulness colouring and how long have you been using mindfulness colouring as a creative activity in your life?
I was made aware of it during discussions about my health and mental health. I have been doing adult colouring books for approx 6 months and started on it when my wife showed me a book of different mandalas she was thinking of doing. I thought it a way of taking my mind of my health issues and bought my book and pencils and started from there. I now have over 12 different books I choose from to colour.

2) What does mindfulness colouring give to you? What do you enjoy the most about it?
Colouring gives me the opportunity to switch my mind off from the worries and struggles of coping with my chronic pain. Rather than sit idly watching the tv, I can be creative with colour and let my mind create a colourful result. I enjoy finding pencils that have slight variation in colour and texture, that give subtle changes to the image I create. I also like that getting involved allows time to pass without being aware of how long it takes to complete a portion of the overall picture. I also like that I can put it aside and pick up where I left off without feeling I am letting myself down.
3) Do you have any other creative outlets you use to look after your well-being?

I have recently re-commenced my attendance to the Moss Vale Men's Shed Inc. I am able to assist others with projects and slowly begin to again indulge in my metal work. I like to make fire pokers, candle holders, and pot holders. I hope to be doing this work again if my psoriatic pain continues to decrease.
I also hope to begin crocheting again. I use a large hook and crochet two strands of eight ply wool of diverse colours to create colourful blankets and ponchos.

4) What do other men have to gain from taking up mindfulness colouring like you have?

Hopefully other men will be able to connect with their creative abilities. They can learn a new craft and a way to pass the time that can take their minds off of their problems for a time. It can give them a feeling of self-worth also in the beauty of what they can create.

Tackling the Chalenge