Free Spirit Interior_D2_TEMP by betterdaybooks

60 Enchanting Patterns to Encourage Self-Discovery and Nurture Your Connection with Nature

Publisher: Peg Couch

Book Designer: Llara Pazdan

Editors: Colleen Dorsey and Jules Hostetter

All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means — graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying or information storage and retrieval systems — without written permission from the publisher.

The scanning, uploading, and distribution of this book or any part thereof via the internet or any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized editions and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials.

“Better Day Books,” the floral book logo, and “It’s a Good Day to Have a Better Day” are registered trademarks of Schiffer Publishing, Ltd.

“Schiffer,” “Schiffer Publishing, Ltd.,” and the pen and inkwell logo are registered trademarks of Schiffer Publishing, Ltd.

ISBN: 978-0-7643-7062-5

Printed in TK

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Published by Better Day Books, an imprint of Schiffer Publishing, Ltd.

Better Day Books

Email: hello@betterdaybooks.com Web: www.betterdaybooks.com Visit us on Instagram! @better_day_books

Schiffer Publishing 4880 Lower Valley Road

Atglen, PA 19310

Phone: 610-593-1777

Fax: 610-593-2002

Email: info@schifferbooks.com Web: www.schifferbooks.com

For our complete selection of fine books on this and related subjects, please visit our website at www.betterdaybooks.com. You may also write for a free catalog.

Better Day Books titles are available at special discounts for bulk purchases for sales promotions or premiums. Special editions, including personalized covers, corporate imprints, and excerpts, can be created in large quantities for special needs. For more information, contact the publisher.

Dedication

To my great love, Alejandro, who has been my biggest support and who has always helped me grow and achieve my dreams. To my four dogs, who bring joy and faithful companionship to my everyday life. To Geo and Peg, for trusting me with this project.

Welcome!

My name is Mara Beyer, and I’m a graphic designer and illustrator from Argentina. I’m so excited that you’ll be connecting with my art and joining me for this creative and colorful journey! Creating this book has been a dream come true for me, and knowing that it will reach so many people makes the experience even more special.

During the first ten years of my career, I held a few different types of jobs at various companies. Although these roles gave me the chance to develop my graphic-design skills, I didn’t feel like I had the freedom to fully explore my creativity. I was grateful to be doing what I loved in a professional capacity, but I felt that something was missing—that I wasn’t giving my all. So, one day, I told myself, “I don’t want an ordinary life; I want magic”—and that’s what I set out to create.

I decided to take a leap of faith, leave my job, and start working independently. At first, I was afraid of what people would think. However, little by little, I gathered the courage to start sharing my art on social media.

To my surprise and joy, it was warmly received, which opened the door to numerous projects that allowed me to feel fulfilled. I was finally able to make a living by creating from the heart. In that moment of discovery, a spark of hope and motivation was ignited within me. I realized that I could make art freely and be truly happy about the work I do.

Nature has also been a significant source of support and grounding for me on my artistic journey. I live in a forest reserve near the ocean, where I have my own design studio. I find peace, inspiration, and motivation in my surroundings every single day. I live with my partner and our three dogs, and together we enjoy nature, care for the environment, and go on adventures that nourish the soul. My love for the simple and everyday wonders of life is constantly renewed, and I’ve tried to reflect that through the art and mindfulness prompts you’ll find here.

I hope you take your time with this book to really enjoy coloring and immerse yourself in colors and creativity. May the peaceful time you spend with it inspire you to believe in

Meet Mara

We sat down with Mara to learn a little more about her and her artistic journey. Join us!

Your art is so lush and colorful. Are you inspired by your surroundings?

Definitely! I am greatly inspired by nature, the colors around me, and the small details of everyday life. Living near the sea and being surrounded by ever-changing landscapes fills me with ideas. I love observing organic shapes, textures, and the way light transforms everything throughout the day. Often, taking a walk or finding an unexpected flower can spark a new series of drawings.

Have you always been creative?

I think so. Ever since I was a child, I was fascinated by drawing, making collages, and experimenting with any materials I had on hand. I always found ways to express myself visually, even though I didn’t initially realize that it was creativity. Over time, I discovered that creating art was not only something I enjoyed but also a way to understand and appreciate the world.

What is your favorite motif to draw?

Birds are my favorite motif. I’m fascinated by their wide variety of shapes and colors, as well as the sense of freedom they symbolize. Each one has a unique personality, and I love to observe them. I also enjoy incorporating birds into patterns by freely combining lines and colors

and seeking a balance between the real and the imaginary.

What other creative pursuits do you enjoy?

I deeply enjoy activities that allow me to lose track of time, clear my mind, and fully embrace the present. It could even be something as simple as observation—taking the time to look closely at something and discover details that often go unnoticed. I love dancing, letting the music guide my body, and losing myself in the moment without rules or choreography. Cooking is another one of my creative rituals—mixing flavors and experimenting with textures and aromas connects me to the present.

Do you have any art-making rituals or routines?

I am a very calm person, so I like to start my day by playing with my dogs and tidying up my home and workspace. I make myself a tea or maté, put on some relaxing music or my favorite TV show, and prepare my materials at a steady pace. Natural light is essential for me, so mornings are the ideal time in which to create.

Do you listen to podcasts or playlists while creating art?

Yes, I listen to my relaxing music playlist or put on my favorite streaming channel, Luzu TV (an Argentinian channel). Both entertain me and keep me company.

What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to trust in her creative instincts and not be afraid of making mistakes. Not everything has to be perfect to have value. The process is just as important as the result—enjoy it and remember that every small step is an opportunity to learn and grow.

What is a perfect day for you?

A perfect day starts with a laid-back attitude, a good breakfast eaten slowly, and a walk in the park with my dogs. After that, I spend a few hours designing or drawing without checking the time. In the afternoon, I visit my parents or have tea with friends, and I end the day by cooking a delicious meal with my partner while we listen to music and share about our days. Throughout the whole day, I have a sense of serenity and fulfillment that comes from doing what I truly enjoy.

Mara Beyer is an international art influencer, illustrator, and graphic designer with 23,000 followers who love her intricate designs and creative insights. With over a decade of experience in branding, packaging, and product-applied art, she has collaborated with global brands across Latin America, the US, and the Middle East. Her work and experience have helped her build a strong community on Instagram, where she shares her projects, motivational insights, and creative processes. She lives in Mar del Plata, Argentina. To learn more, visit www. marabeyer.art and @marabeyer_ on Instagram.

Coloring Tips

You might think of coloring as one of the easiest activities out there, and maybe it is, but that doesn’t mean you can’t upgrade your skills to make it more interesting and fun! Here are some of my personal tips for how to elevate a simple coloring page to a masterpiece you can be proud of.

Choose the right materials.

You don’t need to invest in the most expensive supplies, but look for good-quality colored pencils, markers, or watercolors. A basic and versatile set will be enough to start.

Create layers of color.

Start with a light layer and gradually add more intensity. This technique will allow you to achieve more natural transitions and shadow effects.

Start with a color test. Before applying color directly to your drawing, do a small test on a separate sheet. This will help you avoid surprises.

Don’t be afraid to mix colors.

Combining different shades can bring your illustrations to life. Try mixing two colors to create a new one or soften the edges with a white pencil.

movement to your drawings. For a smooth finish, use short, circular strokes.

Define the details at the end.

Once you’ve filled in the main areas, go back to the details to add that extra touch. Use sharpened pencils or finetipped markers.

Use a blending tool or cotton.

Blending color with a special tool or simple cotton swab or ball helps to smooth transitions and gives work a more professional finish.

Experiment

with mixed techniques.

Don’t limit yourself to just one material. Combine colored pencils with watercolors or markers for unique effects. Don’t worry about mistakes— part of the beauty of coloring is imperfection. If you make a mistake, integrate it into your work. Sometimes, those unexpected details are what make the result special.

Relax and enjoy the process.

Coloring is not just about the result, but about experiencing a moment of relaxation and creativity. Have fun and let your imagination flow!

Coloring Sequence

Each person has their own way of approaching a pattern, and that’s the magic of it. In this short tutorial, I’ll show you how colors gradually transform the illustration step by step. Do you prefer to complete one color at a time or jump between shapes and details as inspiration strikes? There are no rules—just intuition and enjoyment. Dare to explore and let yourself be carried away by the process!

Pick Your Palette

Here are five vibrant nature-inspired color palettes you can use in your coloring! Play around and have fun figuring out how you want to use each color within the palette in your chosen design. If you want to recreate the overall effect of each palette, do your best to match your media to the colors shown. Of course, feel free to change up any palette by swapping out or adding colors to suit your aesthetic or mood.

Fresh Sea

Mountains

Autumn

Natural Light

Swatches for Color Testing

This page features 25 blank swatches where you can test the colors of your tools. Simply fill each swatch with color and write the color name down for future reference.

Swatches

How to Use This Book

I hope you’re ready to revel in magic and start putting pencil (or marker) to paper! Feel free to dive into the following pages in any order you’d like. If you feel overwhelmed by the choices, hesitant to put your first color down, or simply creatively blocked, don’t worry—try using the Coloring Worksheet on the back of the coloring page you choose! This page will allow you to experiment with colors and establish a color palette before you commit to putting colors down on your chosen illustration. Each coloring page is also perforated if you’d like to remove it and color on a different surface or in another position.

I hope these patterns truly inspire your creativity, fill you with positivity, and nurture your purpose.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Try incorporating a short walk into your daily routine and closely observing the nature you see.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Remember that we are all connected to each other, like branches on one big tree. We all have more in common than we think! What makes you feel connected to humanity?

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

While you color this picture, think of the last time you heard birds chirping from outside your window. Can you see any now, or soon?

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

What makes you feel empowered? Move toward what gives you that feeling, and don’t forget how strong you are.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Open up your heart and try something new today. It could be anything from a new recipe to making a new friend!

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Think of an intention to set for yourself. How do you want to give attention to a certain part of yourself or your life today or for the coming weeks or months?

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Engage all your senses to ground yourself right now. Take time to notice what you can see, smell, hear, taste, and touch.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Before you jump into the next activity of the day, try to take a moment for yourself. Breathe, close your eyes, and relax your muscles.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY:

COLORING MATERIALS:

Self-care is more than an occasional spa day—it’s a consistent practice in preserving your well-being. What’s one way you can you show yourself care today?

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Relax your neck and shoulder muscles—these are often tensed without us noticing. Even when—or especially when!—you’re really focused on a task, such as coloring.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Right before or after coloring this picture, take a few minutes to read your favorite book passage or your favorite poem.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Take notice of all the sounds happening in the background of your current moment to ground yourself in the present.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Choose a specific window of time every day during which to turn off your phone notifications to avoid unnecessary distractions.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

While you color this picture, reminisce on sweet memories of the beach and ocean.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Try using colors you wouldn’t typically associate with the images in this picture. You might be surprised how lovely alternative colors turn out!

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

The next time you take a walk or go on a hike, focus on taking in deep breaths of fresh air.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Make yourself a comforting drink, sit outside or next to a window, and soak up some sun.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Think about your latest adventure. What’s your biggest takeaway from it or a beautiful moment that you cherish?

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Write fun activities on slips of paper and put them in a jar to choose from on a rainy day when you’re feeling uninspired.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Write down a short list of the things you’re most grateful for.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY:

COLORING MATERIALS:

Think about all your accomplishments—long term or recent. What makes you the proudest?

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

What’s one small thing you can do to make your home feel cozier? Take some time today to make it happen.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

What’s your favorite color? Incorporate lots of it into this picture to bring you extra joy.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY:

COLORING MATERIALS:

Do something today that would bring joy to your inner child.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Take just five or ten minutes today to meditate. Sit comfortably in a quiet room and focus on your breath.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Make sure to take quick breaks from your computer frequently to avoid burnout and eyestrain. It’s great to get up and walk around to enhance your circulation as well.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Make yourself an extra-nourishing meal today and notice how nurtured and energized it makes you feel.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Find a little time to connect with nature today, whether it’s going on a walk, tending to your houseplants, or simply sitting in a beautiful park.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Think of a time in your life when you felt reborn. Choose a color that represents how that felt, and incorporate the color into this picture.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Do you have something that gives you good luck?

Hold on to it, wear it, or place it near you while you color this picture.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Come up with a positive affirmation you can start each day with. Make it something meaningful to you.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY:

COLORING MATERIALS:

Never give up on making your dreams come true. When is the last time you had a dream, however small, come true? Let the energy of that memory fill you and carry you forward.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Color this picture outdoors and soak up the energy of the natural world around you.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

There is lightness and darkness in all of us which can be harnessed to create harmony and balance. Try using strongly contrasting colors to work on this design.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Take at least ten minutes today to do something that brings you joy, whether it’s going on a short walk, eating your favorite snack, or coloring this picture!

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

How can you cultivate a new beginning in your life? It doesn’t have to be giant—it can be small.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Take a little time out of your day to dance like no one is watching. Focus on letting yourself feel free.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Take a moment to pause and give someone a genuine compliment today.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Think about how you’ve grown over the last few years and be proud! Write a short list of self-improvement goals for the next few years.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Pick one of your favorite colors to seek out and notice around you as you go through your day today.

The Creative Free Spirit Coloring Book © Mara Beyer

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Don’t get too caught up in reaching goals and milestones, or you might miss some beautiful moments along the way! Pause while coloring this page to enjoy the process.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Make sure you’re spending some time outside every week. If you have pets, bring them along to soak up the sunshine!

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Think of all your memories, good and bad, as an intricate tapestry that represents your unique life. Visualize this personal tapestry as you color this design.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY:

COLORING MATERIALS:

Add a relaxing treat to your nighttime routine, like a soothing cup of tea or a calming face mask.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING

MATERIALS:

Think about what makes you feel safe and protected, and gravitate toward those things today.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Write sweet little notes today to give to your closest friends, reminding them of how much they mean to you.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Engage in the things that make you feel special. This could be listening to music you love, expressing your personal style, or anything that makes you stand out.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Make time this weekend to listen to your favorite album and give it special attention. Focus on how each element of the music makes you feel.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY: COLORING

MATERIALS:

Think of something you’ve always wanted to try, like a new food, a new craft, or a day trip to somewhere you’ve never been. Then make it happen!

MY SWATCHES

COLORED

BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Lead your life with lots of love and never forget that includes loving yourself! How can you show love to yourself, someone else, or the world today?

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Plan a hike or a nature walk with a friend you haven’t seen in a while.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Dedicate a space in your home to mindfulness. Make it a comfortable spot for you to meditate, be creative, and focus on relaxation.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Try to make sure you’re present during your morning and night routines. These are perfect times to reset your attitude and head into your day or night feeling calm and refreshed.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Consider putting up a bird feeder or bath in your yard.

Then you can watch beautiful birds right from your window!

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Acknowledge

the voice of self-judgment in your head, then come up with three reasons why you are worthy and strong.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Surprise a loved one today with something special, like flowers, a sweet treat, or a heartfelt note.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Everyday tasks like washing dishes or folding laundry are great opportunities to practice mindfulness. Focus on being present in the moment by concentrating only on the task or your breathing.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Buy yourself a bouquet of flowers or light a floralscented candle to brighten up your day.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Take a moment now to do a body scan. Working your way from head to toe, notice if your muscles are tense anywhere in your body, squeeze them for a moment, and then relax them.

MY SWATCHES

COLORED BY: COLORING MATERIALS:

Let your mind wander as you color this picture; don’t try to push any of your thoughts away. Accept them with genuine curiosity and gently let them come and go.

Business is personal at Better Day Books. We were founded on the belief that all people are creative and that making things by hand is inherently good for us. It’s important to us that you know how much we appreciate your support. The book you are holding in your hands was crafted with the artistic passion of the author and brought to life by a team of wildly enthusiastic creatives who believed it could inspire you. If it did, please drop us a line and let us know about it. Connect with us on Instagram, post a photo of your art, and let us know what other creative pursuits you are interested in learning about. It all matters to us. You’re kind of a big deal.

www.betterdaybooks.com better day books

Immerse yourself in nature and creativity magical designs!

Embrace the power of nature and discover your own creative self through this enchanting coloring book filled with patterns inspired by the energy of the natural world. With designs featuring birds, mountains, woodland animals, celestial motifs, empowering affirmations, and more, this book will fill you with positivity and bring you relaxation and tranquility.

Each pattern, illustrated by celebrated artist Mara Beyer, is perforated for easy tear-out and comes complete with a coloring worksheet on the back to help you plan your palette. More than your average coloring book, this book also includes 60 thought-provoking prompts to encourage you to connect with the natural world and nurture your unique creative spirit.

So clear your mind, embrace the nature that surrounds you, and set your creative spirit free as you color this captivating collection of designs!