Disclaimer: Presented by BetterHelp.
It’s easy to get so caught up with the responsibilities and busyness of day-to-day life that you forget about the things that make you happy. Although hobbies are a crucial aspect of well-being, many people struggle to find the time for them or feel as if they’re not important.
Hobbies can involve almost anything, from different types of artwork to sports to simple self-care strategies. One hobby you may not have considered before is crafting, particularly if you don’t consider yourself talented in this arena. However, you don’t have to be an artist or have any specific skills to make crafting your new hobby. All you need is an open mind, a willingness to try new things, and time and effort to put into each project.
Here, we’ll explore some of the advantages of adopting crafting as your next hobby and give you some ideas to get started.
What Is Crafting?
Crafting refers to any type of activity in which you create something with your hands. Different types of crafts include:
- Scrapbooking
- Knitting
- Sewing
- Crocheting
- Beadwork
- Painting
- Origami
- Quilting
- Pottery
- Candle Making
- Weaving
- Drawing
- Embroidery
- And more!
The beauty of crafting is that it can be anything you’d like it to be. There’s no pressure to stay within certain boundaries, and you don’t need to impress anyone. Your enjoyment is the focus, and what matters most.
The Benefits Of Crafting
While everyone is unique and draws something different from crafting, the following are some of the most common benefits associated with this hobby:
Decreases stress:
Doing crafts can allow you to step away from the responsibilities and demands of daily life and focus on something soothing instead. When you’re crafting, you’re often forced to be fully concentrated on the project in front of you, which can leave little time for other thoughts. Having a break from the busyness of everyday life can make the difference between high levels of stress and a more balanced mindset.
Boosts mood:
Choosing a craft that brings you joy can be key to reaping its benefits. This may involve trying several different crafts before you find one you like. Some people enjoy drawing or painting, while others prefer ceramics or embroidery. Crafting may be one of the best parts of your day, giving you small bursts of happiness, peace, and relaxation.
Sparks creativity:
Crafting allows you to have full control over what you do and how you do it. You’re free to try something new and use your imagination, whether that means experimenting with a new color scheme while painting or using a new pattern to design a dress. Embracing this freedom and having fun with your projects can promote healthy self-esteem and help you find what you’re skilled at.
Fosters a sense of accomplishment:
Completing a challenging or time-consuming craft can provide you with a deep sense of accomplishment. Working your way up to more challenging projects can boost the confidence you have in your abilities. When your crafts have meaning and perseverance behind them, they’re sure to bring you fulfillment.
Improves cognitive function:
Crafting helps the brain stay active and engaged, which can improve memory and problem-solving skills. Keeping the mind stimulated can also help you increase your attention span because many crafts require patience and concentration.
Research has found that people may be able to reduce their risk of cognitive conditions like dementia by taking up crafting and that those with the disease can slow its progression by engaging in this hobby. BetterHelp offers online therapy for older adults experiencing these conditions, and some therapists even incorporate art into their techniques.
Refines skills:
While anyone can take up crafting as a hobby, it often takes time and practice to become skilled in certain areas of interest. Some crafts might require more handiwork or a keen eye for detail. No matter what art projects you choose to learn more about, you’re expanding your skill set, which can open doors for other, more advanced projects in the future.
Bolsters positive mental health:
The symptoms of mental health disorders like anxiety and depression can often be alleviated by participating in self-care activities such as crafting. Being focused on something else besides the stressors in your life can give your mind a much-needed break, boosting your mood and lowering your stress levels. Becoming skilled at crafting can also lead to greater self-esteem, which is correlated with positive mental well-being.
Promotes relaxation:
Crafts can involve any of the five senses, stimulating them in gentle and calming ways. The repetitive and rhythmic movements associated with different types of crafts can cultivate feelings of tranquility, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.
Whether your hands are being smoothed by clay on the throwing wheel, you smell freshly brushed paint on your canvas, or you hear the clicking of knitting needles, engaging all your senses in the crafting process can be much like meditation.
The advantages associated with crafting are far-reaching, extending well beyond this list. Given that everyone has different interests, it’s crucial to find a hobby that resonates with you to reap the most benefits.
Crafting As A Form Of Self-Care
Self-care is a popular term today that refers to any methods or activities a person does to reduce stress and spark joy. Engaging in regular self-care by tending to your physical and mental health can be key to living a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life.
Crafting has numerous health benefits, making it a prime option to add to your routine. Whether you’ve tried crafting before or are just getting started, it’s important to recognize that it can be more than just a hobby. Rather, crafting can serve as a consistent and powerful form of self-care that allows you to forge a path to a more care-free, balanced lifestyle.
