When I think of knitting, I think of my mom. She had a blue knitting basket where she stored her different-sized knitting needles and colorful balls of yarn.
When I did a little research on the hobby, I found numerous mental and physical benefits for knitters. Maybe that’s why so many mothers and grandmothers knit!
Sharpens the mind
When you knit, you visualize a final product and then strategize how to create it. Doing so stimulates your motor cortex and both frontal and occipital lobes. Engaging these parts of the brain helps to strengthen your mind and slow down cognitive impairment.
An article in the Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinic Neurosciences studied mild cognitive impairment and found “Computer activities; craft activities, such as knitting, quilting, etc.; playing games; and reading books were associated with decreased odds of having MCI.”
It’s like working out
The rhythmic actions of knitting keep the finger joints flexible and the muscles in the hands toned and steady, aiding in the prevention of arthritis and tendinitis and helping with dexterity. Also, knitting burns about 100 calories an hour.
Cheaper than therapy
Knitting alone can be a great way to relax and relieve stress. If you want to be more social, join other knitters in a class or a group of people who work together while they chat and visit. You can make your hobby a way to build new friendships.
Helps with bad habits
Do you smoke or snack on not-so-healthy foods? If your hands are occupied, you can’t reach for that cigarette or bag of chips. Instead of mindless eating while watching television, pick up those knitting needles and get busy.
Boosts self-esteem
We all know how fulfilling completing a project can be. With knitting, you can turn a ball of yarn into a hat, scarf, sweater or blanket. When you’re done, you can keep your creation or give it to a friend, loved one or someone in need. The more you knit, the better you’ll feel.
