For as long as people have had leisure time, they have filled this time with an array of hobbies. But hobbies aren't just about passing the time, they can also be a source of social interaction, a way to earn money or an opportunity to learn new skills. 

There are many benefits to having a hobby, but one of the most under-rated reasons is how it helps to improve your mental health. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing has been a key focus in the media for some time, and the UK government has been trying to determine (and measure) the nation's wellbeing for many years. Recent studies have shown that hobbies, and crafting in particular are very good for your mental health. How we spend our free time can have a big impact on our mood and general wellbeing. 

There are four types of hobbies; 
learning, creativity, fitness and financial, 
and it is a popular opinion that each person should have three hobbies;

- One to keep you fit -
- One to make you money -
- And one to keep you creative - 

While exercise and fitness are an important aspect of life, there is also a lot of value in crafting. It doesn't matter what area of craft you enjoy, the joy of having an idea, and then turning that idea into something you can hold in your hands, provides a sense of achievement, and pride in your work, which can build confidence and self-esteem. 

Research has shown that hobbies, like knitting, can be addictive, but in a good way. 
Constructive addictiveness, which offers rhythmic and repetitive movements, can occupy and distract the brain, and raise serotonin levels, which helps enhance your mood. It has also been suggested that this mindset induces relaxation and mindfulness, which is commonly associated with meditation. 

The main areas of crafting, can be categorised into five groups, based on their form and purpose; 
Textile, Decorative, Paper, Functional & Fashion Craft, and whether you make things for yourself, or to sell, you are an Artisan of your craft.

Working with your hands can be a rewarding experience, while at the same time improving dexterity, especially for those who suffer from arthritis and muscular disorders. For an artisan, the benefits go beyond the physical. Many craft workshops have noticed a significant improvement in dementia patients, by using materials which trigger memories of people and past events, while others have expressed the benefits of tactile crafting, which offers autistic children, 'a little bit of peace' by working with their hands. 

Crafting has always offered an outlet for self-expression, but many of the other benefits are often overlooked. We are encouraged to increase our productivity, and find the most efficient way to spend our day, but 'unproductive' hours are often the most soul-shaping parts of our lives.

Getting lost in the "flow" of crafting, can reduce stress and anxiety; it teaches patience and concentration, and boosts cognitive skills. Crafting can enrich our lives, and improve our personal growth. It also naturally provides us with a digital-detox, while still improving our social interactions. 

To some, crafting is more important than they realise. It is more than just a hobby, and with all the benefits mentioned above, it is easy to see why. 

So next time you are immersed in your crafting project, remember that you're not just producing a beautiful piece of work, you are also working towards a balanced approach to life. 

We'd love to hear your stories. How has your craft helped your mental health? 

Email us at blog@minionsofcraft.co.uk or share your story with us on social media; @minionsofcraft