Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing
Many of my friends and colleagues know me from my property background to which I dedicated 35 years. Those years were full on; I worked very, very long hours around a family with two small children (adults by the time I had time to spare!).
Life was extremely stressful, juggling a full on career, two children which coincided with my husband being made redundant, not once but three times during a 10 year period.
I didn't really have time for hobbies and certainly never stopped and sat down for long, thinking about noting in particular. Having said that, I had dabbled with arts and crafts; dried flower arrangements, embroidery and I once decided to make a crocheted christening shawl. I had never crocheted but bought a very elaborate and lacy pattern, wool and a crochet hook and started....I guess this was indicative of the pressure I placed myself under on a daily basis.
I did like crafts but, if honest, I didn't mention it if asked about hobbies. The idea that Arts and Crafts Good for Health and wellbeing wasnt heard of and the few people I spent most of my time with could be quite dismissive of things they didn't engage with.
With hindsight and, being older and wiser, I feel that this said more about them than me, and certainly didn't reflect the crafts I sometimes dabbled with. Now I embrace anything I love and am happy and proud to say I live and breath arts and crafts!
So what changed and when did the current thinking that "Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing" happen?
I bought a needle felting kit which was a craft I had never tried. I was hooked pretty much from the off; there is something extremely therapeutic about stabbing something (and its legal too!). I was so hooked I started my own online craft store, MillyRose Crafts. Head here to see some of our MillyRose Crafts needle felting kits.
Time moved on and needle craft has become a huge part of my life both personally and from a business perspective.
Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing
Art and crafts have long been recognized for their positive impact on health and wellbeing. In fact, a report from Frontiers and Anglia Ruskin University highlights the numerous benefits that engaging in art and craft activities can have on individuals. (see the Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing full report here)
One of the key findings of the report is that art and craft can have a significant impact on mental health. Engaging in creative activities has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. It provides a form of self-expression and allows individuals to explore their emotions in a safe and therapeutic way.
Furthermore, art and craft have been found to improve cognitive function. The process of creating art stimulates the brain, enhancing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and memory. It also promotes focus and concentration, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with attention disorders.
Physical health can also be positively influenced by art and craft. Certain activities, such as painting or sculpting, require fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which can help improve dexterity and motor control. Additionally, engaging in art and craft can promote relaxation and reduce physical tension, leading to a sense of overall wellbeing.
Moreover, art and craft activities have been shown to foster social connections and a sense of belonging. Participating in group art projects or joining art classes can provide opportunities for social interaction, collaboration, and the development of new friendships. This social support network can contribute to improved mental and emotional wellbeing.
It is important to note that art and craft are accessible to people of all ages and abilities. Whether it's painting, knitting, pottery, or any other creative pursuit, there are endless possibilities for individuals to engage in artistic activities that suit their interests and capabilities.
In conclusion, the report from Frontiers and Anglia Ruskin University confirms that art and craft have significant health benefits. From improving mental health and cognitive function to enhancing physical wellbeing and fostering social connections, engaging in art and craft activities can contribute to a healthier and happier life. To read the full Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing report click here
On a personal level I do fully endorse and embrace the notion Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing and welcome the findings in the report.
I have MS, I still struggle with Long Covid and have recently had my second run in with the Covid virus. I suffer with long periods of "brain fog". I equally find it hard to switch off (old habit), so when I feel the overwhelm taking over I reach for one of my needle craft kits. Sometimes embroidery, sometimes needle felting, and I have a few more crafts lined up. Its a simple way to lose myself for a few hours and it helps........Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Wellbeing. Its definitely good for mine!
On a business level as an owner of an online craft store I am very aware of the need to make arts and crafts accessible to everyone; I am always looking at ways to ensure we have products that are affordable and that appeal to a wide cross section of the population.
So, perhaps you are wanting to slow down, to stop that little voice in your head nagging away at you. Perhaps you know someone who is struggling and want to help them?
It's definitely worth a try, dont you think? Why not get crafty here
Arts and Crafts Good for Health and Well Being - read full report here.
