The phenomenon combines the visual appeal of intricate designs with the auditory and tactile sensations of manipulating art supplies. Individuals experience a soothing effect from the quiet scratching of colored pencils on paper, the visual focus required, and the repetitive nature of filling in spaces within a defined outline. This activity, often recorded and shared online, aims to elicit a calming, tingling sensation known as Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR).
The relaxing properties of focused creative activities, such as this, contribute to stress reduction and mindfulness. The concentration required to complete the visual task can serve as a form of meditation, diverting attention from anxieties and promoting a sense of well-being. The rise in popularity suggests a desire for accessible and non-pharmaceutical methods to manage everyday stress and anxiety, hving roots in more traditional relaxation techniques.