Need some creativity in your life? Tapping into your crafty side has benefits for overall wellness. Immediately, you’ll feel relief from taking your mind off day-to-day stressors. But overtime, you’ll also see the pay-off of a reduced likelihood of heart disease, a decreased chance of developing memory disorders like dementia, plus the added benefit of a new skill or hobby.
So whether you pick up an adult coloring book, learn how to knit, or break out your painting kit, it’s important for your mental and physical health to engage in some form of creative pastime.
Improves mental health
Can’t make your brain stay quiet long enough to get through a guided meditation? Painting, sculpting, and other creative activities provide the same calming effect as meditation. Dopamine, a natural antidepressant, is released during crafting and can reduce the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Studies have also found that art is a powerful tool when coping with trauma, and many forms of art therapy exist to help survivors.
Boosts your immune system
Tough day? Scientists say that journaling your feelings or listening to therapeutic music have a positive impact on a person’s immune system. The science to understanding why is tricky, but the results are clear: You’ll feel better and stay better by taking a little time to process and express your emotions.
Makes you smarter
If music is your creative outlet, studies show you may establish a better connection between the left and right sides of your brain. This open communication between hemispheres improves cognitive function.
In addition to making you a whiz at the weekly crossword, playing music or doing other creative activities provides a mood boost. The increased levels of dopamine you experience while getting crafty mean less stress and a happier outlook.
