Did you know that over fifty million individuals knit and crochet worldwide? In today's AI world, when everything is digital, you might be surprised by the immense popularity of crafting. Are you familiar with crochet or knitting terms? Crocheting is done with one hook, while knitting requires two needles. Whether you are a newbie or a pro, you can easily make handmade items with hand-dyed yarn. Did you know knitting calms the mind and reduces heart rate by an average of 11 beats per minute, according to research done in 2007 at the Harvard Medical School's Mind and Body Institute? The rhythmic movements of needlework can significantly impact your physical and mental strength. Let’s explore why knitting and crocheting are good for your health.

As you read each word of this blog, you will quickly understand what benefit you get.

  1. Reduce Stress levels and relax your mind

Knitting and crocheting are repetitive, rhythmic crafts that can help lower tension and anxiety. Just 30 minutes of knitting is so effective that more than 70% of participants in research by the Institute for Mind and Body reported feeling relaxed. As per Creative Hertfordshire, the parasympathetic nervous system is stimulated by the repeated motions of various crafts, which reduces tension and increases relaxation.

  1. Mindfulness and Meditation

Crafting creates a meditative-like state. Counting stitches and concentrating on the patterns takes your mind off everyday concerns and allows you to engage in the creative process. It will inspire you to create new creative patterns, like a cozy blanket using your favorite soft yarn. Sometimes, it becomes so calming that you want to spend more time on it. You will be glad to know that University of Wollongong research indicates that people who knit regularly reported feeling more emotionally stable and self-aware.

  1. Coordinating Hand, Eye Movements, and Fine Motor Skills

One of the benefits of knitting and crocheting is enhancing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination because of their delicate hand movements. According to Creative Hertfordshire, these activities are a great way to maintain hand strength, especially for older people, by strengthening the tiny muscles in the hands and fingers. As per a survey by Creative Hertfordshire, 50% of individuals facing joint problems reported improvements in hand movement after stitching.

  1. Improve Emotional and Mental Well-Being

Finishing the project can increase confidence, whether you make a big blanket or a little scarf. In a recent study by Creative Hertfordshire, 80% of participants felt capable after completing a craft project, with many reporting their improved mood and immense happiness.

  1. Help in reducing Anxiety and Depression

More than three million people of all ages suffer from depression worldwide. It has been discovered that crafting will help in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms. According to Creative Hert's research, over 80% of knitters felt less nervous and more confident after taking the crafting hobby. Additionally, approximately 60% of people who were depressed reported feeling happier.

Dr Emma Mahoney, a charted clinical psychologist and founder of the advisory ND, says the color and texture of yarn might have particular sensory appeal, as might the repetitive action of knitting. “Repetitive activities can have a soothing effect on an autistic person and help with anxiety,” she says.

Here are a few examples showing how knitting and crocheting change many people’s lives.

  • Anna Lansley has Asperger’s syndrome, a condition forming part of the autism spectrum; she got the idea of knitting from one of her fellow members. She started knitting with two pencils, learned the basic stitches, and creating tiny projects ever since. She feels better each day.
  • James Mcintosh, knitter, designer, and yarn brand owner, began knitting while he was bedridden due to a ‘moderately severe depression.’ He started knitting with two chopsticks by watching YouTube videos. Slowly, he started feeling better and continued his knitting journey.

You will find countless examples from day-to-day life and learn how people change their lives by learning this incredible skill.

Don’t wait, and start knitting or crocheting today. Grab your favorite Merino wool and share your creation with us.

You will find so many positive benefits of knitting and crocheting on one's physical, mental, and emotional well-being, making them useful instruments for improving their living conditions. These crafts have many benefits for people of all ages, whether your goal is to improve cognitive function, lower stress, increase mindfulness or connect with others.

Also, make sure you read the related articles below before you buy the yarn:

  • https://www.symfonieyarns.com/basic-tips-and-techniques-for-new-knitters
  • https://www.symfonieyarns.com/therapeutic-benefits-of-knitting-and-crochet