Compassionate Coloring:
A Healing Workshop for Trauma Survivors -
Workshop Recording and Materials
As we all experience life with varying degrees of challenges, one of the most challenging times for artist and educator Ruth Michalsen was receiving the complex PTSD diagnosis. Through completing multiple modalities of therapy, she rediscovered the joy of coloring.
Slow down with Ruth. In this workshop recording, discover how mindful coloring can soothe your nervous system, foster self-compassion, and provide a gentle path toward healing and your trauma recovery.
Only $15
(a $27 value)
You can purchase now and access the recording at your convenience.
What is in the "Compassionate Coloring: A Healing Workshop for Trauma Survivors" Recording & Materials
Join a supportive community and gain lifetime access to:
A 54 minute recording of the online workshop guided by artist and educator Ruth Michalsen
Discussion on the benefits of adult coloring for trauma recovery
Demonstration on Ruth's calming color blocking technique
Exercise in mindfulness and orienting on everyday objects
Discussion on the process and ways to nurture your coloring practice
Exclusive downloadable coloring sheets
Reference photos to color from
A private forum to connect with fellow survivors and continue your healing journey together
What you'll need
Paper
Recommended: A mixed media sketchbook or single sheets of mixed media grade paper (like Canson Mixed Media Paper or Sketchbook).
Colored Supplies
Recommended: Any coloring supplies of your choice. Ruth uses Prismacolor pencils in the recorded workshop, but watercolor brush pens, markers, crayons or any other coloring tool you're comfortable with is perfectly acceptable. Just experiment!
You're not alone—here's how others have found peace.
"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)
IS THIS Workshop for ME?
THIS RECORDED WORKSHOP AND MATERIALS 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 and trauma recovery. No drawing or art experience is necessary.
Connect with other trauma survivors through community
Participants will receive access to a private online community to connect and for support.
Why Color?
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
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 recording and course 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.
