It’s a proven fact. There is research. Yes, knitting and crochet does in fact enhance your health and well being. I know that when I am feeling low and tired, but still feel the need to “do” something, I take out my project bag and knit a few stitches or rows or repeats. I also take my knitting to meetings. Keeping my hands busy with knitting does keep my mind focused on during this meeting. Thankfully my boss is not bothered by this, in fact she does put out crafts and fiddles to keep hands busy and minds available for learning. I do have to say that I usually take “brainless” knitting that I can do without following a chart or thinking too much about what is being made.
I’ve noticed an uptick in the number of women, children and men who are knitting and crocheting, especially in the age range from 25-35. We even had a young man (13?) search us out at 3 fiber festivals this fall to buy yarn and roving. I can’t wait to see what he makes with his collection. So you can imagin how really happy I am to see a great article and a new book on the subject.
Here is what I’ve learned so far:
- Repetitive motion induces a kind of relaxed state that is similar to the deep relaxation you feel after meditation or yoga
- Knitting and crochet, after learned, will decrease your heart rate and blood pressure. It also reduces your level of cortisol, which is the hormone that gets released when you are under stress.
- Studies are now showing that knitting and crocheting may reduce your chances of suffering from dementia.
- An added benefit is that you are making tangible object so that your feelings of self esteem and accomplishment are increased.
- Knitting and crochet are now being used in therapy programs for eating disorders and smoking cessation. These therapies work because of the relaxation and because your mind is focusing on something other than your addiction.
- Knitting and crochet groups are popping up all around as the number of fiber crafters goes up. The benefit of adding social interaction while knitting is another added benefit.