Have you ever noticed how calm you get after just a few rows of crochet? The racing thoughts go away, hands stop trembling and anxiety is forgotten? There is something soothing about grabbing a skein of yarn and a hook, and finding a quiet corner to work on a project.
Crochet is becoming more than just a hobby. The mental health benefits of this favorite pastime have been recognized by many and is becoming a popular method of therapy for those suffering with anxiety, depression and all forms of stress induced mental health issues. It is a quiet, relaxing process that heals one stitch at a time and there is science behind this to explain why.
WHAT IS THE SCIENCE BEHIND CROCHET THERAPY?
Crocheting has been shown to reduce cortisol, the stress hormone produced by the adrenal gland that plays a crucial part in the body’s response to stress. At the same time it can increase dopamine which is a neurotransmitter made in your brain that affects our emotions and behavior. It is often called the feel good hormone and when you crochet it triggers a release of dopamine from the brain increasing your mood and reducing anxiety. How does crocheting do this? The repetitive movements that you naturally make when crocheting help to focus the mind on that activity which slows the nervous system and reduces anxiety and the stress hormone, cortisol, in the body.
The effects of this are a calm similar to those found in meditation. When you crochet your mind enters a flow state which can ease the symptoms of anxiety. It requires that you pay attention to the task at hand and this takes your mind off of the worry that triggered the anxiety. It also gives you a sense of achievement therefore building confidence. The end result of your hard work, the development of your crochet skills and transforming a ball of yarn into a finished piece gives the crocheter confirmation of an accomplishment. Learning new stitches and showing off your work gives your brain a dopamine dump that elevates your mood. Creating something with your hands is deeply fulfilling, giving the crocheter a sense of purpose and pride.
RELAXING PROJECTS WHEN CROCHETING FOR THERAPY
For the crochet expert almost any project can be completed with ease, but for the beginner it is important to choose a project that matches your skill level and doesn't require you to learn a new stitch or technique while you seek to relieve anxiety or forget a stressful day. Learning new techniques will inevitably cause anxiety to spike rather than calm you in any way, therefore a simple project that requires little effort is best for this situation. Here are some great therapeutic choices for the beginner that will not overwhelm you.
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Granny squares
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Simple plushies
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Repeating stripe patterns
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Soft amigurumi shapes
LITTLE LUVIN STITCHES CROCHET THERAPY KIT:
Here at Little Luvin stitches we now offer crochet therapy kits with simple amigurumi patterns that are beginner friendly and packed with all the therapy essentials. You will get an adorable companion from our emotional support gang to quietly be near you while you relax and crochet, as well as a meditation card, affirmation cards, aromatherapy, and calming tea to sip on while you enjoy the peace that surrounds you. This kit is always beginner friendly and comforting for the new lover of crochet to the most skilled crocheter. You will love the simplicity of the pattern and in case you are ever in a place where you need help stitching together your new friend, we are always here to help with email and live chat support. In every box you will receive one of our handmade beaded crochet hooks that are comfortable to hold and inspirational to use with a custom stitch marker. In addition you will find a link to a self care planner that will not only keep track of your emotional journey but also organize your crochet therapy projects. We even include the link to a therapeutic play list that will help calm and relax you while you crochet your way to a better you. Visit our shop now and find out how to get your own Plushie Luv Yourself in a Box with all of these great add ons that make this a must have for relieving anxiety and stress!
Our Love Yourself Crochet Kit includes: Small companion plushie selected from the Emotional Support Gang, everything you need to crochet your own plushie with easy to follow instructions, video, pattern, hook, yarn, stuffing, safety eyes, stitch marker, a handmade beaded crochet hook, email and live chat support, herbal tea, affirmation cards, meditation card, aromatherapy, and the link to your self care crochet project planner and soothing play list for easy listening while you crochet away the stress and find your happy place!
We believe crochet can work wonders for your well-being, but I would like to add it is not intended to be a substitute for professional mental health care. Think of it as a cozy companion to add to your care plan. Always follow the advice and guidance of your healthcare provider.
Until next time, happy crocheting the stress away and Happy Mental Health Month!
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