Both knitting and crocheting can challenge and strengthen our brain through repetition of complex stitches and patterns. In fact, this helps build new neural pathways that help with memory and can reduce the cognitive decline that comes with age. Whether you prefer needles or hooks or a combination of both, crafting can calm your body and fix your mind. Anecdotal evidence has proven this for decades and new research confirms this with science.
The advantages of knitting and crocheting are numerous. From relief from depression to increased self-confidence, these activities have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. Here are the top 10 health benefits of wool manufacturing.
1.Relief from Depression
Relief from depression is by far the most reported and studied benefit of crochet and knitting.
Repeated crafts have been shown to release serotonin, a natural antidepressant. CNN recently reported that “in a study of more than 3,500 weavers, published in The British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 81% of respondents with depression reported feeling happy after knitting. More than half reported feeling “very happy”. For many people, knitting or crocheting can be a form of therapy that helps them cope with difficult situations such as the loss of a loved one.
2.Improved Cognitive Function
Knitting and crocheting can help improve cognitive function by challenging the brain to remember complex patterns and stitches. This helps build new neural pathways that help with memory and can reduce the cognitive decline that comes with age.
3.Stress Relief
The repetitive motions involved in knitting and crocheting can be used as a mindfulness activity, such as yoga or meditation. This can help reduce stress levels and create a sense of well-being.
4.Increased Self-Confidence
Knitting and crocheting can help increase self-confidence by providing a sense of accomplishment when completing projects. As an added bonus, knitters and crocheters can proudly wear the garments and accessories they create, unlike other art forms that are only meant to be visually pleasing.
5.Improved Social Connections
Sharing this hobby connects different people locally, such as
knitting and crocheting come together in wool shops, cafes, etc. This can help build relationships with others who share the same interests and provide an opportunity for meaningful conversations.
6.Increased Creativity
Knitting and crocheting provide an outlet for creativity as you can make almost anything you can imagine once you learn the basics techniques. This can be a great way to express yourself through art while also creating something useful at the same time.
7.Improved Motor Skills
The repetitive motions involved in knitting and crocheting can help improve motor skills such as hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and fine motor skills. This is especially beneficial for those who have suffered an injury or illness that has affected their motor skills.
8.Improved Sleep Quality
Knitting or crocheting before bedtime can help relax your body and mind which can lead to improved sleep quality. This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders as it provides a calming activity before bedtime that doesn't involve screens or electronics which can disrupt sleep patterns.
9.Increased Productivity
Knitting or crocheting during breaks or while commuting can help increase productivity by providing an outlet for stress relief while also providing an opportunity to complete projects in short bursts of time throughout the day.
10. Improved Mental Health
Overall, knitting and crocheting produce happiness, increase self-confidence and help create a sense of well-being which all contribute to improved mental health.
