Making can be a very therapeutic and rewarding activity. The process of creating something from start to finish gives you a sense of pride and achievement, even if it’s just a simple DIY camera strap cover or a burp cloth. It’s also a great way to learn new skills and try out different techniques. You might be surprised to find out that there are many health benefits associated with crafting, too.

Keep Calm and Craft On

The popular saying is a lot more than just a catchy phrase, as studies have shown that the act of creating is extremely beneficial for our mental wellbeing. This is because art and craft activities stimulate the brain in many ways, including raising happiness, reducing depression and anxiety, increasing cognition, and improving visual perception and emotional stability.

Moreover, the repetitive nature of many arts and crafts like knitting, crocheting, or paper cutting helps to calm the body by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which soothes our “fight or flight” response and gives us a sense of relaxation and well-being. Furthermore, crafting can provide a sense of community and connection by joining a group or sharing your creations with others online or at craft fairs. This can be especially beneficial for those with a mental illness or who may feel isolated from their loved ones.

Helps with the Grieving Process

Everyone goes through grief in one form or another at some point in their lives. Whether it’s the loss of a family member, a close friend, a job, or even their health, coping with grief isn’t easy. Studies have shown that making, such as the act of sewing or painting, can help elevate feelings of happiness and decrease depression in people who suffer from a loss. This is due to the fact that making allows you to express yourself creatively and to release painful, negative emotions.

It’s also a great way to help children cope with difficult situations, as it can teach them that there are different ways of doing things and that it’s okay to make mistakes. Similarly, it can encourage creativity and self-esteem by helping them push themselves out of their comfort zones and create things they didn’t think they were capable of. So, next time you’re feeling stressed or down, grab your favourite pair of scissors and a piece of fabric, and get making! Alternatively, click on the images or titles to browse through posts organized by material.