Like many, I’ve faced my own mental health challenges. This book was born from two practices that have profoundly supported me in quieting my mind and busying my hands: journaling and coloring. 

Over the past six years, journaling has become my anchor. It began out of necessity when I was recovering from a concussion and I couldn’t rely on my usual screen-based distractions. As I wrote, I felt liberated and more at peace. What I loved most was the freedom – there were no rules or expectations, just the healing power of writing. Since becoming a mom, my journaling practice has become a sacred part of my routine. It’s an integral part of my morning ritual and a time when I fill my cup before pouring it into my children’s.

The second part of this book, the coloring affirmations, combines two other tools that have been essential in my mental health journey. Around the same time I began journaling, I also started incorporating positive affirmations into my daily life. I began writing affirmations in my journal and repeating them aloud: “I am worthy,” “I am deserving,” “I am enough”. Over time, this simple practice changed the way I saw myself. I’ve also never found it easy to sit still, and keeping my hands busy helps me stay grounded. I discovered that adult coloring books were a creative and productive outlet for me. To bring these coloring affirmations to life, I collaborated with my friend and freelance graphic design artist, Hannah Sheridan (@hannah.sheridan.design), who perfectly captured my vision. The concept is simple: as you color in your affirmations, your brain absorbs their positive message while your hands stay engaged. We designed the images 5x7 so they can be easily torn out, cut, framed and displayed. I love surrounding myself with affirmations as daily reminders to think and speak positively, and these make beautiful additions to your home or thoughtful gifts for friends!