Knitting and crochet afternoon

Knitting and crochet can reduce anxiety and release serotonin - precise handwork occupies the brain enough to take our minds off the source of our anxiety. It creates a sense of calm, much like meditation.

Mindful activities can help you stay in the present and give you greater focus. The rhythmic, repetitive motions of yarn crafts can also release serotonin, which is a natural analgesic and antidepressant associated with feelings of happiness.

Yarn engages multiple senses - yarn is colourful, squishy, and soft. It can be smooth, it can be fuzzy, it can have sparkles in it. While looking at it, you get the benefits of colour therapy. While working with it, you might feel the relaxing sensation that comes with petting a kitten or a puppy.

Visual and tactile stimuli can prompt the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a feel-good neurotransmitter and is associated with feelings of reward, motivation, and productivity.

Making art can lower cortisol levels and boost confidence - cortisol is your body’s main stress hormone. Constant high levels of cortisol can lead to anxiety, depression, heart disease, and issues with sleep, digestion, memory and concentration.

Making art and expressing your creativity can help reduce cortisol levels, lowering stress but also a host of other potential health risks. The mental health benefits of knitting and crocheting can also improve your physical health.