Making is a process of putting parts together to create a whole. There are many ways to make things, from building structures and art pieces to knitting and sewing. The act of making can have a positive impact on one’s mental health, especially when it is used as a form of self-care.

Creativity allows adults to experience the best of childhood: playfulness, freedom to be silly, and wonderment. Whether it’s painting, pottery, jewelry-making, or scrapbooking, crafting provides an opportunity to let go of the worries and stresses of everyday life, and become fully immersed in a project with its own unique rules and goals. This freedom of creativity is an important part of what makes DIY crafts so therapeutic.

Practicing any type of art or craft has several psychological benefits, including stress reduction and an improved mood. When engaging in a creative activity, people often become engrossed and focused, creating a sense of “flow” that is similar to meditation. This state of concentration helps to reduce the brain’s production of stress hormones and can help to improve mood by reducing anxiety and depression.

Furthermore, practicing a creative activity can encourage a sense of mastery over a task and foster a sense of pride. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from depression and anxiety, as well as those who have experienced chronic pain. Studies have shown that a hands-on activity, such as DIY crafting, can provide pain management by distracting the brain from pain signals. Moreover, the immersive nature of crafting can encourage an individual to become completely engrossed in the project at hand, further distracting the brain from pain perception.

Crafting can also serve as a form of exercise for some individuals, which can have a positive effect on physical well-being. The movement and dexterity involved in completing a craft requires the use of both upper and lower body muscles, as well as core strength. Therefore, it can be a great form of low-impact physical exercise that can help to increase strength, flexibility, and endurance.

Another benefit of crafting is that it can be done with a variety of materials, including recycled or trash items. This practice can contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the amount of waste that is disposed of. Additionally, utilizing repurposed materials can help to reduce costs associated with purchasing crafts supplies.

In addition to the psychological benefits of making, it can also be a fun way to spend time with friends and family. By creating a project together, people can engage in social interaction while using their imagination and creativity to come up with unique and exciting ideas. Additionally, the repetitive nature of certain crafts, such as knitting and crocheting, can provide a relaxing and soothing sensation. This can be particularly helpful for those with anxiety or depression, who may find comfort in the rhythm of these tasks. Furthermore, a project with multiple steps can teach patience and the value of perseverance, which can be helpful in overcoming anxiety or depression symptoms.