In this time of social media, instant gratification and fast-paced work life, it can be hard to find an outlet for self-expression. But making offers more than just a break from the humdrum; it’s also good for the mind, body and soul. Creating art, craft or cooking can boost confidence, improve mood and provide a sense of accomplishment, and even promote cognitive abilities. And the best part? It’s free.

Taking the time to make something yourself is a way of giving back to your community, and it’s an opportunity for you to get in touch with your own creativity. It’s a form of mindful meditation that brings you to the present moment. When you’re engaged in an activity like crafting, your brain is in a state of flow that allows you to forget the worries of the world and just be.

Making can be anything from making a meal to sculpting a sculpture, or it could be as simple as painting your nails. The point is to give your brain a creative challenge that requires thinking outside of the box and overcoming obstacles. And in doing so, you can learn a lot about yourself along the way.

The process of making is also a great way to teach children how to problem solve, teaches them not to be afraid of failure and shows that you don’t need to have all the answers right away. It’s okay for things not to come out perfect the first time around, and it helps them develop perseverance when they encounter a setback.

It can help to reduce stress, anxiety, irritability, restlessness or any other negative symptoms that can be caused by everyday life. It also builds relationships and encourages a positive outlook, especially when people join together to make art or craft.

Studies have found that people who regularly engage in artistic or creative activities are more likely to feel happy than those who don’t. This is because the brain’s reward system is stimulated by creating art or craft. The act of creation, in particular, triggers the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which is known to cause feelings of happiness and pleasure.

While previous research has shown that arts and crafts can be therapeutic for those who suffer from mental health conditions, a study published recently in Frontiers in Public Health investigated how arts and crafts contribute to wellbeing in the general population. The researchers looked at data from the Taking Part survey, which measures how the public engages with culture and creative activities. This was compared with data from the Millennium Cohort Study, which tracks people’s satisfaction with their lives. They discovered that arts and crafts have a strong impact on life satisfaction, even when controlling for other factors such as age, education and social deprivation.