Crafting and being creative, in all of its diverse forms, is much more than a mere hobby.
I have always said that crafting is one of the purest forms of self-expression. Time and time again, it proves to be this beautiful conduit for emotions and a gateway to immense healing – and I am OBSESSED.
Better yet, engaging in creative activities has been proven to have numerous positive effects on your mental well-being. So, let’s share a moment together as we explore the 6 secret benefits of arts and crafts and how they can help balance your mental health.
A happier and more colorful life awaits you.
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Crafting connects hearts and minds
Crafting is a wonderful way to connect with others and foster meaningful relationships. And I truly witness this magic every day when I look at the community that we have collectively fostered here at Talú.
Joining a crafting group or attending workshops not only allows you to learn new techniques but also holds a space for you to meet like-minded individuals. This is where you get to delve into shared creative experiences, nurture a sense of belonging and strengthen new-found social connections.
Recent research even backs this!
So yes, while crafting involves the use of your hands, it also requires the use of your mind, heart and openness.
So, grab your arts and crafts supplies and embrace the benefits that come with it!
1. Creativity is a therapeutic workout
I know what you’re probably thinking: the words ‘therapeutic’ and ‘workout’ don’t belong in the same sentence, never mind the thought of them being placed right next to each other.
I hear you!
But before you lock in your final judgements, I do encourage you to try crafting. There is serious magic to be witnessed here that will both shock and delight you!
Activities like knitting, painting, or sculpting can improve your hand-eye coordination, enhance your fine motor skills, and increase dexterity. These activities also provide a gentle workout for your hands, promoting flexibility and strength.
2. The ageless magic of creativity
Crafting is a non-judgemental, gentle and encouraging art form that embraces every person at every stage in their life. For seniors, being creative in any way, whether it be painting or pottery, for example, helps maintain cognitive function, stimulates memory, and provides a deep sense of accomplishment.
For the little ones, crafting encourages cognitive development, improves hand-eye coordination, and nurtures creativity. It also allows them to express their emotions and imagination freely, leading to enhanced self-esteem and self-expression.
3. A healing escape from your mind
Let’s take this brief moment now to reflect on the last time you last sat down for a little crafting… For some of us, this may have been earlier today (uhhm, is that just me?), or for some, that may be a more nostalgic childhood memory.
Regardless of the time or moment, I am sure you remember the level of attention you gave to whatever arts and crafts activity you were engaging in. The truth is that the level of focused attention required during that crafting activity meant that overwhelming thoughts and stresses were most likely overshadowed by your desire to create at that moment.
The benefits of arts and crafts can be seen in the way that they help redirect your mind away from negative thoughts, and instead help you embrace a state of mindfulness and inner peace.
Studies have shown that engaging in creative activities can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, increase dopamine production (the “feel-good” hormone), and improve your overall mood.
After all, sometimes, all your mind needs to do is escape for a period of time to allow you to shift your focus onto something positive.
4. Crafting unleashes your inner emotions
Did you know that taking part in creative tasks provides a safe space for you to explore and express your emotions? In fact, that’s why art therapy exists!
Whether it’s through painting, writing, or crafting with textiles, each unique form of art allows you to unleash your inner feelings, transforming them into tangible creations.
Research has even shown that creative activities can provide an outlet for people to process and communicate their emotions effectively – without fear or judgment. This is because crafting is such a forgiving pastime – mistakes can lead to surprisingly beautiful creations, and if the outcome isn’t what you hoped for, you can always try again.
5. Creating for a greater cause
Alright, so we have already delved into the forgiving nature of arts and crafts; however, we also need to take a moment to acknowledge that it has the ability to not only heal us but others too.
Engaging in crafting for charity or community projects means that you not only get to use your creative skills to help others but also foster a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
It’s always a beautiful and mutually beneficial idea to join hands with fellow crafters and make a difference in your community.
The benefits of arts and crafts go far beyond mere creative expression. It has the power to help your own relationship with your mental health by providing you with social connections, physical activity, cognitive stimulation, emotional release, and a sense of purpose.
The great thing about crafting is you don’t need to be good at it. The focus is not merely on the outcome but the journey and the process instead
You’ll find yourself lost in the magic in no time, completely transported to a world far beyond your own where anything is possible.
So, embrace your creative side and allow the benefits of arts and crafts to improve your connection with others, your connection with self and your connection with the Earth.
If you would like to explore arts and crafts further and join a community of wonderful individuals, I encourage you to take part in my natural dyeing online course. It will enrich you with the knowledge you need to continue living in a way that’s best connected to Mother Nature.
