Whether it’s a hobby like crochet or knitting, or something more hands-on and creative like painting or drawing, making is more than just a fun pastime. It can provide an opportunity to express your emotions, develop problem-solving skills and connect with others in meaningful ways.

It reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation. According to research, engaging in creative activities like crafting can significantly lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone. Unlike other forms of relaxation, crafting is also enjoyable and stimulating and can provide an escape from the everyday stresses that can cause mental health issues like stress and anxiety.

Creativity helps children learn and build self-esteem. The process of learning how to make a project from start to finish is rewarding for anyone, regardless of age. This can teach kids how to persevere through challenges even if they don’t turn out exactly how they wanted. For example, if they don’t like the color of their paint or a piece of art they’ve completed, they can try to change it by painting over it with white paint or creating something else altogether.

Reduces depression and loneliness. Studies have shown that incorporating crafts and creativity into daily life can help alleviate symptoms of depression, loneliness and anxiety. It can also build community and friendships. For instance, people suffering from PTSD often find solace in creating their own projects with other people who are going through similar struggles. It’s a way to connect and support one another while creating something beautiful for themselves.

Improves sleep. The repetitive nature of crocheting and knitting has been found to reduce insomnia in many people, and can help with the overall sleeping cycle. This is a great alternative to other methods of treatment, including medication, and can have long-term effects on overall health and wellbeing.

Helps grieving. Grief is a natural part of the human experience, and everyone experiences it at different times in their lives. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, the death of a pet or losing your job, crafting can be a comforting activity that provides an outlet for grief. The calming up/down motion of stitching, the texture of yarn and the satisfaction of completing a project can help ease the pain and get you one step closer to feeling normal again.

As we are all aware, our world can be a stressful place and it’s important to find ways to manage your own mental and emotional health in the face of this. Crafting is a powerful tool that can have many positive impacts on your well-being, and we hope this article inspires you to take up a new hobby! The possibilities are endless. For more ideas, shop popular Klutz kits below. Brittany Leddy is the Marketing & PR Manager at Klutz and a huge fan of makers, crafters, artists and all things creative. Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest Klutz news. Get 10% off your next Klutz purchase! Enter coupon code “READYTOSHIP” at checkout.