Knitting & mental health

Mental health is a complex topic, but more and more studies show that knitting has numerous positive effects on our psyche.

The rhythmic movements of knitting calm the mind, similar to meditation and yoga. The stress hormone cortisol and the pulse are lowered and inner restlessness is reduced. This often even has positive effects on depression and anxiety (but is of course no substitute for proper psychotherapy). Even insomnia can be reduced, as the meditative state of knitting can stop disturbing thought spirals. In addition, relaxation promotes the release of serotonin, which can have a positive effect on sleep and chronic pain.

Depending on the complexity of your knitting patterns, you will also regularly train your ability to concentrate, which reduces the risk of pathological memory loss. You will practice the fine motor skills of your arms and hands, as well as your frustration tolerance, since when knitting, things don't always work out the way you want them to on the first try ;)

It also boosts self-confidence, as you repeatedly experience a sense of achievement.
Knitting can even have a positive effect when it comes to addiction or breaking unwanted habits. As your hands are constantly busy during the knitting process, there is another hurdle to overcome when you regularly feel the urge to reach for a cigarette, chocolate, your cell phone, etc.

In summary, knitting slows you down, relaxes you, and most importantly of all: makes you happy.

Source: Psychology Today