Compassionate Coloring:
A Healing Workshop
for Trauma Survivors (virtual)
Saturday, February 8, 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. CT
Coloring can calm the body and reduce stress among other health benefits. Slow down with artist and educator Ruth Michalsen, learn how to layer with color pencil and incorporate a coloring habit into your healing journey.
Only $27
(a $45 value)
Registration will close Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 11 p.m. CT.
What to expect during the Compassionate Coloring Workshop
Saturday, February 8, 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. CT
1.5 hour live Zoom workshop facilitated by artist and educator Ruth Michalsen with you and other trauma survivors
Demonstration from Ruth on her calming color blocking technique when coloring
Exercise in mindfulness and orienting on everyday objects around you
Color along together with music to get you into that creative flow state
Open discussion on the process and ways to nurture your coloring practice
What you'll need for the workshop
Paper
Recommended: A mixed media sketchbook or single sheets of mixed media grade paper (like Canson Mixed Media Paper or Sketchbook).
Colored Pencils
Recommended: Any color pencil that has a soft core (like Prismacolor pencils) to allow for blending and layering of colors.
What you'll receive after the workshop
Lifetime access to the recording of the workshop
Access to two short mark-making video tutorials
Access to image files you can use as reference for your colorings
Access to download free printable coloring sheets
IS THIS Workshop for ME?
THIS WORKSHOP WILL HELP YOU:
Develop mindfulness as you nurture your creativity
You'll learn how to be present and practice nonjudgment while you color.
Build a daily creative habit
You'll gain the skills to continue your coloring practice as part of your healing journey. No drawing or art experience is necessary.
Connect with other trauma survivors through community
Workshop participants will receive access to a private Facebook community to connect and for support.
How your healing journey will change
- Increases Mindfulness: Focusing on the act of coloring can help you stay grounded and present.
- Decreases Hypervigilance: Coloring can shift your focus away from your hypervigilance due to the relaxing nature of coloring
- Strengthen your Cognitive Skills: Coloring helps encode visuals into your working memory and enhance your problem-solving skills
- Facilitate Connection: Group coloring activities can foster connection through community and decrease feelings of isolation
Register Today
What previous participants have to say
"My 'aha' moment occurred when I realized how quickly I became engrossed in what I was doing – concentrating on the colors, looking for shadows, etc. In a few short moments of creating a background, I had closed out everything around me."
– Jeanine P. (in-person workshop participant)
"I enjoyed seeing a variety of people with a variety of interest and skills. I also enjoyed [that the workshop] was more casual with topics brought up organically, [Ruth] checking in and [providing] assistance as needed."
– Samantha M. (in-person workshop participant)
My Mission
Hi! I'm Ruth Michalsen of Ruth Hong Art, a mixed media artist and educator.
Through the practice of coloring – beyond the mandala but still structured coloring – my aim is to help trauma survivors cultivate self-compassion through a habit of coloring and connecting with others on the same healing journey. Coloring isn't just for the kiddos! Practice coloring with me and let me show you how mindfulness and nonjudgment can help reveal the value you already have.
Important Disclaimer: Please note that while I, Ruth Michalsen, am a trauma survivor myself and passionate about the healing potential of coloring and group discussion, I am not a medical professional. The workshop is not a substitute for professional therapy or treatment. It is intended as a complementary tool for healing, connection and self-expression. If you are experiencing trauma or distress, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for support.
