How Does Crochet Therapy work?
By doing a repetitive activity, it distracts the mind by focusing on the action of your hands, without really having to think about what you are doing. This alone can help release physical tension and reduce feelings of anxiety.
Another positive for those of us with anxiety, is that the repetition combined with the mental focus can put you into a flow state, or state of flow. Have you ever heard the expression, time flies when you’re having fun? Well, they were actually talking about the flow state, it’s a similar sentiment to being “in the zone”.
Have you ever had a time when you were completely immersed in an activity? When time itself seemed to move at a different pace? Quite possibly, with more time going by then you would have thought possible? That is a flow state. While in this state, you will feel both, a focused energy for what you are doing and a feeling of enjoyment in the process.
Crocheting, is a wonderful way to be mindful and present. Most of the time, anxiety is caused by going over a past situation or fear of some doom filled future. Having a creative, immersive activity, that keeps you focused on something in the present. Can reset your mind to a relaxed state and fill you with serotonin instead of dread.
So, as well as the simple joy someone can get from crochet, it really can help to improve wellbeing and health conditions such as pain, anxiety, depression and stress.
Crochet is a creative skill that can take a little while to master this in itself can provide a welcome distraction from stressful situations. It can be so rewarding to learn a new skill and both patience and perseverance are needed which are valuable life skills.
Crochet is not a fast craft and some crocheted items can take many weeks to complete but this slow yet consistent progress can really help to soothe, calm and facilitate relaxation. When someone is engaged in a craft activity such as crochet it can provide a distraction from pain or stress.
Once the basics of crochet are mastered, the possibilities are endless. So many things can be made, from crocheted flowers and bunting to blankets, toys, clothing, accessories and so much more! The satisfaction of making something with our own hands can give a real sense of achievement, self-worth, self-esteem and confidence, especially helpful for those who have depression.
Crochet involves a lot of stitches! A crocheted blanket for example can be made up of over 15,000 stitches. The rhythmic and repetitive action of crocheting each stitch can provide an almost meditative state. The numerous benefits of meditation are well known including being able to reduce anxiety. Some crochet designs need a lot of concentration, others less so, either way as you are absorbed in the crochet your mind is able to focus on the repetitive stitches. It is like mindfulness, as you crochet you are focusing on the task in hand and can enjoy the here and now.
Crochet can help us to relax, unwind and focus; it can distract us, soothe us and calm us; relieves stress, boosts self-esteem, increases confidence and builds self-worth, which are fantastic benefits to wellbeing.
Our classes are run on Sunday afternoons, so give us a call if you would like to come and join us.
