Albert Einstein, Julia Gillard, Kate Middleton, Lorde, Kristin Stewart, Benedict Cumberbatch and Krysten Ritter are (or were) knitters. Maybe that’s why they have been so successful…???
Whatever, the research is in: knitting, origami, crochet, macramé, patchwork and similar activities are not only good fun—especially in a group—and not only produce beautiful, one-off art pieces, they are also really, (REALLY!!) good for humans.
Physically, doing craft reduces the production of the stress hormone, cortisol. It helps some people control their weight—less mindless snacking. But wait, there’s more! The repetitive nature of many crafts induces a relaxed state like that associated with meditation and yoga. Once you know how to do it, knitting and crocheting can lower heart rate and blood pressure.
And then there are its mental health benefits. Who would have thought that a ball of wool and a couple of knitting needles could produce amazing mental health benefits?
Curious?
Our Careers and Wellbeing Team have joined forces to set up a lunchtime craft group. All students and staff are welcome, and the first meeting will be around the middle of June—we’ll keep you posted about a definite date.
Also: if you have any yarns/wool, knitting or crochet needles, patterns, fabric, origami papers or origami instruction books, Rita (in Careers) is welcoming all donations. We’ll see you there!
(https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2016/01/25/the-health-benefits-of-knitting/)(www.abc.net.au/news/2018-04-25/crochet-fans-help-psychologists…/9691612)(https://headtohealth.gov.au/meaningful-life/purposeful-activity/hobbies)
