Not everyone considers themself to be a creative person. But just because you don’t play an instrument or paint in your free time doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t benefit from doing some arts and crafts. In fact, Trisha Aldridge at the University of Florida notes that there are plenty of benefits that can come from crafting.
First, it can instantly melt away stress. Research has even found that just 45 minutes of creative activity can significantly reduce your body’s cortisol levels. And if your mind has been racing all day, a great way to slow it down is by focusing on something creative. After coloring or crocheting for a few minutes, you’ll likely notice that you’ve completely stopped thinking about the project that’s been stressing you out at work.
At the same time, crafting can be wonderful for boosting your mood and emotional well-being. Creative leisure activities have even been found to reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms while simultaneously enhancing life satisfaction during the pandemic.
And while it’s not necessary to produce anything that’s profitable or professional-quality while crafting, simply finishing projects can bring you a great sense of accomplishment. In fact, research has even found that creative tasks increase self-efficacy, leading to people feeling even more capable of taking on challenges in all aspects of their lives.
Along with the masterpieces that you create, a creative hobby might also bring you plenty of new friends and a wonderful community. Depending on what kind of crafts you’re into, you might be able to find local events to participate in where you can meet like-minded people who are also passionate about ceramics or cross-stitching. And if you can’t find anyone in your area to bond with over your hobby, there are plenty of online communities where you can share your finished creations, ask for advice, and bond over the joy of creating just for fun.
Another benefit that can come from being an avid crafter is the fact that learning a new hobby keeps your brain sharp and engaged. A 2014 study even found that engaging in creative tasks can enhance brain function and slow cognitive decline. So if you want to ensure that your mind is sharp for many decades, it might be time to take up sewing, woodworking, or pottery.
Now, if you’re looking for a creative hobby to take up but aren’t sure where to start, The Crafty Angels recommends starting with journaling. It’s easy and accessible for anyone to begin, but you can make it much more exciting if you feel so inclined. You can add photos, magazine clippings, doodles or drawings, and use any markers or colored pens of your choosing. It’s a wonderful way to clear your head while also creating something tangible that you’ll be able to hold onto for the rest of your life.
If you’re not a pen-and-paper person, another craft you might want to take up instead is embroidery. This one is great because you can do it at your own pace. You’ll never have to worry about waiting for paint to dry or tools expiring over time. Just pick it up, do as many stitches as you’d like for the day, and leave it exactly how it is. It can easily be done while chatting with friends, listening to a podcast, or simply sitting on your balcony listening to the birds. And there are plenty of simple projects that can be made by beginners.
