There has been a recent increase in the popularity of knitting and crocheting, since the start of the pandemic and lockdowns. I’m enjoying watching this upward trend, as I’ve experienced first-hand the benefits that they can bring. This is because knitting and crocheting are not just fun hobbies, they can also have a positive effect on your mental and physical health too, at all stages of your life.
Needlecraft has been scientifically proven to help to manage a variety of mental and physical health conditions and getting together with others while you craft, can be even more beneficial.
‘Knitting has significant psychological and social benefits, which can contribute to wellbeing and quality of life,’ (The British Journal of Occupational Therapy)
‘data suggests that crochet offers positive benefits for personal wellbeing with many respondents actively using crochet to manage mental health conditions and life events such as grief, chronic illness and pain.’ (Perspectives in Public Health)
How does crafting help with mindfulness and stress release?
Mindfulness involves being fully immersed in the present and switching off from external pressures. Both knitting and crocheting require attention and focus, keeping your hands and your mind occupied at the same time and enabling you to achieve flow. Mindfulness occurs as a natural side-effect of knitting and crocheting and many people find needlecraft more accessible and easier to practise, than more conventional forms of meditation, such as yoga.
Crafting is great for relieving stress, as it helps you to wind down, subconsciously process your day and focus on something you enjoy doing.
It was great for me, when I was a teacher in a special school, as it allowed me to fully switch off after work. It’s also a great way for me to unwind now too, after my boys have gone to bed.
What are the benefits of crafting for menopausal women?
The following symptoms are commonly experienced by women going through the menopause or perimenopause:
Hot flushes; sleep problems; mood swings; digestive problems; weight gain
All of these symptoms can be exacerbated by stress, as it can put pressure on the nervous system, keep us awake and cause us to crave unhealthy foods.
Crafting, especially crafting with others, can reduce stress and boost the natural production of serotonin. This is a hormone that helps to regulate our mood and sleep patterns and reduces cravings and it is beneficial to both men and women.
How can knitting help with memory loss and retrieval?
The increased attention to detail when following complex knitting patterns, can help to build up more neural pathways, reducing the risk of dementia.
‘Knitting has been found to have a positive impact on cognitive function and memory retention. The intricate patterns, counting stitches, and following instructions require concentration and mental agility. These activities help exercise and strengthen neural pathways, potentially slowing down cognitive decline.’ (Alzheimer’s Lab)
‘Knitting can help delay memory loss. A Mayo Clinic Study has shown that activities such as knitting, reading and quilting along with other social activities in midlife can help cut the risk that people would develop memory loss in their 70s or 80s by more than one-third.’ (Canadian Living)
I knit and crochet because I love it, but knowing that I’m helping my future self too, is a big bonus.
Have you been to one of our Craft Hive sessions yet?
Crafting together, either online or in-person, is a great way to meet like-minded people, share tips and patterns and enjoy a chat, while crocheting or knitting. I set up Craft Hive to facilitate this, both online and in my local area of Lichfield. I really enjoy the sessions myself too, as I’ve always found that crocheting calms my mind and I love the social element as well. If you’d like to know more about Craft Hive and the sessions available, please see https://yarnybees.co.uk/product-category/craft-hive/
So, next time you find yourself wondering whether you should be spending time knitting or crocheting, have a re-read of this, to remind yourself that it’s an investment in your health and time well spent.
References
‘The Benefits of Knitting for Personal and Social Wellbeing in Adulthood: Findings from an International Survey’ British Journal of Occupational Therapy
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.4276/030802213X13603244419077
‘Happy Hookers: findings from an international study exploring the effects of crochet on wellbeing,’ P. Burns and R. Van Der Meer
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1757913920911961
‘Knitting and Dementia: A Therapeutic Thread of Hope’
by Ryan Wilson, July 1, 2023, Alzheimer’s Lab
https://www.alzheimerslab.com/knitting-and-dementia/
‘Can Knitting Delay Memory Loss and Help You Manage Anxiety?’ Canadian Living