Crafting and DIY projects have become so much more popular in recent years, with people of all ages and backgrounds taking up new hobbies and creative endeavors. If you've been with me for a while, you know that I always say I "thrive" on DIY projects. I'm not done with one before I'm thinking about the next! They are my form of therapy, I suppose. From knitting and painting to woodworking and pottery, there are countless ways to get involved in crafting and DIY projects. Aside from the enjoyment of creating something with your own two hands, there are many other benefits to regular crafting and DIY projects. I'm going to talk about five ways that crafting and DIY can be good for your mental and physical health.
1. They Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Crafting and DIY projects can be incredibly therapeutic, providing a sense of calm and focus that can help to reduce stress and anxiety. When we’re engaged in a creative task, we tend to forget about our worries and concerns, instead focusing on the task at hand. This can be a great way to unwind after a long day or to take a break from the stresses of everyday life. Heck, I do this stuff for my business and I still look for more! On days when I'm stuck doing office work, I feel like it's a reward to myself to get to do a fun DIY project if I get all of my work done.
2. They Boost Self-Esteem
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating something with your own hands, whether it’s a piece of jewelry, a knitted scarf, a full room renovation or a simple wooden shelf. When we see the finished product of our hard work, it can give us a real sense of pride and accomplishment, boosting our self-esteem and confidence. Our boxes can help you carve out just a little bit of time each month to get this self esteem boost!
3. They Improve Cognitive Function
Crafting and DIY projects require focus, concentration, and attention to detail, all of which can help to improve cognitive function over time. By regularly engaging in these types of activities, we can strengthen our problem-solving skills, memory, and overall cognitive abilities.
4. They Encourage Mindfulness
Crafting and DIY projects can be a great way to practice mindfulness which is the art of being present and fully engaged in the moment. When we’re working on a project, we’re forced to slow down, pay attention to the details, and be fully present in the task at hand. (They can also help us keep our hands out of the chip container!) This can help us to become more mindful in other areas of our lives, leading to greater overall well-being. See? The benefits are many!
5. They Build Social Connections
Crafting and DIY projects can be a great way to connect with others who share similar interests. Whether you join a knitting group, attend a woodworking class, or participate in an online crafting community, these activities can help to build social connections and create a sense of belonging. We are partial to our monthly subscription boxes, of course! Whether it is BOXED UP or the Happiness is HOMEmade Box, they will cover you in all of these beneficial areas!
Well, as you can see, there are many benefits to regular crafting and DIY projects. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress and anxiety, boost your self-esteem, improve cognitive function, practice mindfulness, or build social connections, these activities can provide a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. So I encourage you to give one of our subscriptions a try! Even if not with a monthly commitment, we have several "extra" boxes available here. Not only do you never know what you might create but it also just might benefit your overall well-being.
