October 10th marks World Mental Health Day – a global initiative organised by the World Federation for Mental Health to raise awareness about mental issues and promoting efforts to improve mental well-being around the world. World Mental Health Day aims to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. It focuses on encouraging open conversations and highlighting the importance of activities that help foster emotional well-being.
Crafting for mental health is one such activity. There are many different wellbeing crafts that have been found to help, from knitting and crochet, to painting and even colouring books. Mental health crafts for adults are now incredibly popular, so let’s explore why craft and mental health go hand in hand.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the art of being in the moment and allowing yourself to feel present without any distractions. Many people link mindfulness with activities such as yoga, but crafting also has similar benefits. Allowing yourself to become fully immersed in a craft activity requires the same level of concentration and focus as mindfulness. It is an opportunity for you to switch of from your daily struggles and put all your energy and attention into something productive and calming. This can help alleviate anxiety and boost overall mental well-being.
Emotional Healing
Another reason why crafting is good for mental health, is that it gives you the opportunity to express yourself and your inner thoughts and feelings. Many crafts allow the opportunity to create something personal and unique to you. It is a healthy outlet to express yourself, especially if you are finding it hard to put your thoughts into words.
Physical Benefits and Improved Cognitive Function
Regular crafting helps stimulate the brain and improves memory and problem solving skills. Keeping your hands busy on a regular basis can also help improve co-ordination and motor skills. Kerry Lord, founder of the knitting company, Toft, says: “Research indicates that the repetitive movements of crocheting can prompt the mind to relax, the heart rate and blood pressure to fall, and stress levels to drop.” – Another top reason to take up crafts like crochet for mental health!
Social Benefits
A study into the benefits of knitting and mental health by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists has found that “knitting has significant social benefits and can contribute to wellbeing and quality of life.” Many guests visiting the Manor & Ashbury Resorts find themselves meeting other like-minded crafters during our craft workshops and making lifelong friends. Many of the new skills learnt during workshops also lead to people joining classes/craft groups when they return home too.
Sense of Accomplishment
Another great benefit to crafting, is the feeling of having achieved something when you complete your piece. Most people feel a boost of self-esteem, many even take to social media to share their work with friends.
By incorporating crafting into daily routines, people can experience the emotional benefits of creativity, such as increased relaxation and a sense of accomplishment. As we observe this year’s World Mental Health Day, let’s embrace activities like crafting that support both mental health and personal growth, fostering a healthier, more balanced life.
