Benefits of Learning Crochet

Benefits of Learning Crochet

Crochet is an artful way of relieving stress, inspiring creativity and promoting well-being all while being fun and functional. By crocheting and allowing ourselves to be creative, we are taking our mind off from whatever has been troubling us. By focusing on the repetitive motions of individual stitches and counting rows, our mind is able to be more relaxed and freer from anxious ideas and thoughts. There's nothing like concentrating on a pattern you love, plus the steady use of your hands and the pleasant feel of yarn, to take your mind off your cares. 

As well as general stress and anxiety, crochet is said to help with more serious conditions like depression too. The repetitive actions needed in crochet release serotonin, the brain's natural anti-depressant. A survey of over 3,000 knitters published in the British Journal of Occupational Therapy reported that 81% of patients reported feeling happy after yarn crafting.

As well as being a mood lifter, crocheting has proven health benefits as the small repetitive movements involved can keep your hands, arms and fingers supple and your eyes sharp. Look into ergonomically shaped hooks if you are doing a lot of crocheting, as these are easier on the joints.

The elements of math involved in crocheting (counting your stitches, being aware of the beginnings/endings of rows, totting up repetitions of patterns) all help to keep your thinking processes sharp, which many experts agree could keep conditions like Alzheimer's at bay.

There's a lot of satisfaction to be gained from making something that gives pleasure to you or others. If you've ever made a really spectacular blanket or given someone a scarf and seen a look of appreciation on their face, you'll know how special that feeling is.
The huge mindfulness movement that has grown around coloring and relaxation techniques also respects crocheting as a perfect vehicle for increasing your mindfulness. Repetitive crochet patterns are particularly good for inducing a mindful, open state. Think of rows of single or double crocheting for simple blankets or scarves -- perhaps with variegated yarn to inject some color interest without the interruption of changing yarns -- and you'll soon be working your way toward inner peace.
The simple act of finishing off a project can have a positive effect on crocheters and can raise their sense of self-esteem. Getting something done and completed from start to finish, whether it be a large blanket or the smallest dishcloth, can bring with it a sense of effectiveness and joy that cannot be underestimated. 
If you've found it hard to kick smoking, if you drink a little too much or if you constantly reach for the snacks, crochet could be of great help. Keeping your hands busy with something productive and positive can break bad habits and keep your mind off your less healthy concerns, replacing them with something useful.
Unlike fishing or big game shooting, you can crochet anywhere -- all you need is a ball of yarn and a hook. Whether you're whiling away on a dull train commute or watching TV while you work, you can crochet at any stage of life and make things for family, friends and yourself -- things that have something special added to them, with a bit of your own inspiration and lots of love.
In a nut shell, Crocheting is provides the following benefits: 

1. The calming repetitive movement, along with the beautiful yarn colors and textures work together to produce a soothing effect.

2. Working through the various stitches keeps the fingers nimble which is especially important to arthritis sufferers.

3. It can be worked while watching television, traveling, or carrying on a conversation.

4. Crochet is portable and can be taken anywhere.

5. The hobby is cost effective.

6. The constant varying in focus keeps the eye muscles toned.

7. It is a great outlet for creativity and helps stave off Alzheimer’s.

8. Crochet is an inexpensive way to produce clothing, décor, and gifts. Learn how to crochet a scarf, hat, gloves… the possibilities are endless.

9. The hobby provides a sense of accomplishment when a project is completed.

10. It adds a sense of balance to the stress of a high-tech, fast-paced lifestyle.

11. The rhythmic, repetitive acts involved in crochet help prevent and manage stress, pain, and depression, which in turn strengthens the body’s immune system.

12. Learning how to knit, how to crochet, and how to create needlework have proven effective in long-term pain management.

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