Over the past few years, crafts have enjoyed a boost in popularity, particularly as a way to help physical and mental wellbeing through the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021. While art therapy is a well-known technique employed to help mental health patients with depression and anxiety, activities like crochet and knitting can have more wide-ranging benefits than you might think.
Physical health
Crochet is a sedentary activity, but that doesn’t mean it’s bad for your physical health. The repetitive motion, coupled with the concentration and focus it requires can help to improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. This in turn helps to build, strengthen and maintain the brain’s neural pathways. A study by the Mayo Clinic, as reported by the BBC, found that those who engaged in knitting were up to 50% less likely to suffer from memory impairment.
Image credit
The motions required for crocheting are easy on the joints, meaning patients living with disabilities and chronic pain conditions can enjoy the activity. Its benefits on mental health have a knock-on effect on physical health too. Learning how to crochet may lead to moments of frustration, but overall, it’s a calming activity which can help lower heart rate and blood pressure, which in turn can reduce the risk of heart-related conditions.
Mental health
Knitting and crocheting, once you’ve mastered the basics, are repetitive and rhythmic processes. This means they can act as a form of mindfulness and meditation, helping to reduce negative thoughts.
Learning to knit or crochet can be stress-free too. Beginners can order starter packs such as crochet blanket kits from Wool Couture or other online craft retailers, complete with pattern, yarn and tools.
Social engagement
Withdrawal from social activity and loss of a sense of purpose are often symptoms of anxiety and depression. Connecting with other crocheters online, who may also have started with crochet blanket kits, can help re-engagement. It’s also a great icebreaker for conversations outside social forums.
Not only that, but many crocheters donate their creations. Seeing your work giving joy to others can promote a sense of self-satisfaction.
