Crafting a happy mind - The Therapeutic Art of Repetitive Crafting
As I was tidying up my house the other day (read: trying to find my couch so I could sit down), I found some finger knitting that my youngest daughter had been doing. It brought back memories, so just for funzies, I sat down with the ball of wool and started finger knitting myself. No end goal in mind, just the repetitive motion of my fingers over and over. As I sat and did this fairly pointless task (side note, hadn’t finished clearing off the couch yet), a moment of calm washed over me. I was reminded of the soothing nature of having something to do with my hands that didn’t require my brain to engage in a stressful way.
In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of calm like this can be a challenge. But women have for years been utilizing the power of their hands to create moments of peace (think: sewing bees, crafting circles, Nanna with her knitting on the bus). Repetitive crafting can be a simple yet powerful tool for reducing anxiety. Activities like knitting, crochet or any task which involves repetitive hand motions can have a profound impact on mental health and contribute to a sense of overall well-being.
Dr Herbert Benson, in his book “The Breakout Principle” writes of how engaging in repetitive tasks can take our minds off our problems, and by the time we are finished, a solution might appear, without us having consciously thought about it.
The rhythmic movements of repetitive crafting may reduce anxiety through its meditative nature – as stitch by stitch, row by row, we are drawn into the present moment, quieting our minds and promoting a sense of mindfulness and relaxation.
Megan Wolyniec, in her study on crafting in social groups*, notes that repetitive crafts such as knitting can provide a sense of stability through periods of uncertainty – picking up your project daily can be a lovely way to provide something predictable and certain to your day.
If you’re looking for a form of self-care, perhaps you could consider a repetitive craft – stitching, knitting, or crochet – the list is endless, so long as you are moving your hands. Creative activities can bring joy, reduce stress and improve your mood. The sense of accomplishment that comes from completing a knitting project or mastering a new crochet stitch can also boost self-esteem and confidence, further contributing to a sense of well-being.
Not to mention, tactile activities that busy our hands can give us a much-needed break from stimulation and constant connectivity. This break from technology can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and promote a sense of balance and grounding.
In conclusion, repetitive crafting has the potential to be a valuable tool in managing anxiety and promoting overall mental health. By engaging in activities like knitting, crochet, and other forms of crafting, women can experience the therapeutic benefits of creativity, mindfulness, and relaxation. So, the next time you're feeling stressed or anxious, consider picking up your knitting needles or crochet hook (or even finger knitting – hey, it worked for me!) and see how it can positively impact your well-being.
