If you’re a maker, you know the joy of taking a blank piece of paper or cloth and creating something from scratch. You also know the sense of accomplishment that comes from the finished product. And if you’re lucky enough to have found a group of like-minded makers, you understand the sense of community and support that comes with them.

The act of making, whether it be art, music or even cooking, has been linked to improved mental health and well-being. In fact, research has shown that a regular creative pursuit can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression, reduce loneliness, increase happiness, and protect against dementia.

But what exactly is it about the process of making that has such a profound impact on our wellbeing? It could be that the repetitive nature of crafting causes us to relax and focus on the task at hand. Alternatively, the creativity involved helps us to forget our daily troubles and worries for a while. This meditative state can be especially helpful for those suffering from stress, as it lowers cortisol levels and reduces feelings of tension and fatigue.

Moreover, the satisfaction that comes from creating a new piece of work can greatly improve self-esteem. When you can see your creation come to life, it reminds you that you’re capable of more than you give yourself credit for. As a result, the confidence boost can lead to an increased sense of self-worth, which can then in turn improve your quality of life.

In addition, crafting stimulates the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which signals the brain to feel good. This is because making evokes positive emotions and the feeling of achievement, which naturally promotes happiness. Plus, it strengthens the connectivity between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, which in turn enhances concentration and readies the mind for learning.

As if this wasn’t enough, it’s been found that those who spend time making have a higher sense of purpose in life than those who don’t. This is because it gives them a way to express themselves and connect with others, while also providing them with a sense of fulfillment. As a result, it’s not hard to understand why so many people find peace and joy in their craft.

It’s no wonder that more and more people are discovering the benefits of making, and why it should be a part of everyone’s life. Whether it’s sewing, knitting, tatting, or putting together an Ikea flat pack, there’s so much that can be done with a little imagination and the right materials. So what are you waiting for? Grab your needles and get to making! Then be sure to share your masterpieces with the world – you never know, they might just inspire someone else. You never know, your next project could be the next Mona Lisa!