Dori Hine has always enjoyed a wide variety of craft activities from knitting, sewing, smocking dresses and hand stitching blankets. So when she had a stroke and began suffering tremors as a side effect, she was very concerned she would never be able to use her hands properly again.
Two years ago, TriCare Mt Gravatt Retirement Community’s Environmental Services team started a Colour Calming program.
While colouring in has been enjoyed by children for centuries, it became popular for adults more recently as a form of relaxation and mindfulness.
There are now 20 residents that meet twice a month at TriCare Mt Gravatt for an hour or so and colour in intricate lines and pictures.
Mrs Hines said she has always used her hands for craft, having enjoyed many years of making items for charity and the local Women’s Creative Centre at Greenslopes.
“I believe colour calming has really helped in my rehabilitation.
Prior to taking it up, my tremor was so bad I couldn’t even sign my name, now I am colouring between the finest lines and spaces, as well as enjoying other craft activities,” said Mrs Hines.
Village Manager, Tammy Watt said that the colour calming program has received great support from the local community as well.
“Initially books, pencils and clipboards were donated by Coles and Woolworths from Mt Gravatt Plaza to get the program up and running.
It is great to see that the simple act of colouring in has provided not only a relaxing activity for residents but also positive outcomes,” said Mrs Watt.
For further information please contact Village Manager, Tammy Watt Free Call 1300 874 227.
Image: TriCare Mt Gravatt Retirement Community resident Dori Hine
