Hand crafting supports our wellbeing

The importance of hand crafting to mental wellbeing is something that is supported by growing scientific evidence, with studies across psychology, neuroscience, and occupational therapy suggesting that crafting activities can positively affect mood, stress levels, cognitive functioning, and overall wellbeing.

This blog explores some of the ways that crafting supports our wellbeing. It is important to remember that the psychological benefits outlined below also have a very real impact on our physical health, so taking time out to focus on handcrafting really does benefit our overall wellbeing.

1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation

• Repetitive, rhythmic movements (like knitting, weaving, stitching) have calming effects, similar to meditation.
• Focused attention on crafting can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone).
• Many people report a "flow state," where they lose track of time and feel deeply relaxed.

2. Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness

• Handcrafting encourages mindfulness by drawing focus to the task at hand.
• Crafts help people stay present, reducing rumination and anxious thoughts.
• Crafting can act as a form of active meditation.

3. Mood Enhancement and Pleasure

• Completing creative projects can increase dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to feelings of pleasure and reward.

The sense of accomplishment boosts self-esteem and confidence.

4. Cognitive Benefits and Focus

• Many crafts require concentration, problem-solving, and hand-eye coordination, which stimulate cognitive functions.
• They help improve focus and patience.

5. Emotional Expression and Processing

• Creative activities allow people to express feelings that may be hard to put into words.
• This can help process difficult emotions like grief, anger, or anxiety in a non-verbal, safe way.

6. Sense of Purpose and Meaning

• Making something tangible provides a sense of achievement and purpose.
• Creating something for oneself or others (like gifts or charity projects) fosters meaning and connection.

7. Social Connection

• Group crafting sessions can ease loneliness and foster a sense of community.
• Shared creative activities can strengthen social bonds.
• As indicated in point 6 above, gifting creations fosters connection.

8. Support for Mental Health Conditions

Studies suggest handcrafts can benefit people with:

• Depression: Lifting mood, improving motivation, and providing structure.
• Anxiety: Offering soothing, repetitive actions that reduce nervous energy.
• PTSD: Encouraging grounding, mindfulness, and a sense of safety.
• Dementia and Cognitive Decline: Supporting memory, fine motor skills, and maintaining cognitive functions.

9. Resilience and Coping

Crafting teaches patience, perseverance, and problem-solving, all of which can help build psychological resilience.

Conclusion

Handcrafts offer a holistic way to support mental health—reducing stress, improving mood, enhancing cognition, and fostering connection. They can be both a soothing escape and a source of personal growth.

Mimosa recognises the importance of creativity, mindfulness, and taking time out from a busy life to enjoy 'me time', which craft always is, even when the intention is to gift the finished project. Our curated range of stitching kits promote a sense of calm, and celebrate the beauty and accomplishment of hand made.

Susan Ellis