Adults Only: How Crafting Can Boost Your Mood, Health, and Social Life
In today's fast-paced, digital world, adults often find themselves trapped in a cycle of work, screen time, and stress. However, there's a growing body of evidence suggesting that engaging in hands-on process-oriented activities (meaning not just focused on the outcome but the entire creative experience) can provide significant benefits for mental and physical well-being, as well as provide opportunities for memorable social interactions. Activities such as painting, crafting, or even cooking offer more than just a break from routine; they have profound effects on the brain and body, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community.
Engaging in creative processes activates different areas of the brain, enhancing cognitive functions such as problem-solving, memory, and spatial awareness. Studies have shown that regular participation in arts and crafts can reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults. Additionally, the structured yet flexible nature of these activities encourages a state of "flow," where individuals experience deep focus and intrinsic reward. This flow state not only boosts mental resilience but also cultivates a sense of achievement and fulfillment, further highlighting the profound impact of hands-on creativity on overall well-being.
Five Benefits of Adult Crafting:
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Engaging in creative activities like crafting can significantly lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone, leading to reduced anxiety and promoting relaxation. According to research published in the journal "Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association," engaging in creative activities can significantly reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. This reduction in cortisol helps to alleviate anxiety and promote relaxation.
2. Boosts Mood
Hands-on activities stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These "feel-good" chemicals play a crucial role in enhancing mood and providing a sense of pleasure and satisfaction. A study from Drexel University found that 45 minutes of art creation significantly increased participants' levels of dopamine, highlighting the immediate positive impact of creative engagement. The act of creating something tangible can give a sense of accomplishment and joy, enhancing overall well-being.
3. Improves Physical Health
Beyond the mental and emotional perks, hands-on activities also contribute to our physical health. Engaging in tasks that require fine motor skills, such as knitting, sculpting, or woodworking, can improve hand-eye coordination and dexterity. This kind of activity helps maintain brain plasticity, keeping the mind sharp and agile as we age. Fine motor skills are essential for day-to-day activities, and maintaining them can improve overall quality of life.
4. Fosters Social Connections
Activities like paint-and-sip events, crafting workshops, or community gardening projects provide a structured environment where individuals can meet new people and build connections. According to a study published in the "Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health," social engagement and participation in group activities are linked to lower risks of mental health issues and improved overall life satisfaction. The communal aspect of these activities can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are increasingly common in modern society.
5. Enhances Cognitive Function
Engaging in creative activities helps maintain brain health by promoting mental agility and cognitive function, which can be particularly beneficial as we age. According to a study published in the "Journal of Aging and Health," older adults who engage in creative activities show greater resilience to age-related cognitive decline. Crafting involves problem-solving, planning, and creativity, which all contribute to a healthier brain.
Where to Get Creative
If you're feeling inspired and looking to dive into some hands-on creative activities, there are plenty of options available both in-person and online. Here are some great in-person places to start:
Design Hive LA (Los Angeles): Design Hive offers a diverse range of adult classes including innovative design, technology, and traditional crafts. Their workshops feature 3D printing, laser cutting, paint marbling, embroidery, leather work, shoemaking, and more, providing a comprehensive space for adults to explore and learn new skills.
WorkshopSF (San Francisco): WorkshopSF offers a variety of hands-on adult classes that cater to beginners and experienced makers alike. Their classes range from woodworking and sewing to cooking and crafts, providing a fun and supportive environment for creative exploration.
Brooklyn Brainery (New York City): Brooklyn Brainery hosts an eclectic mix of adult classes covering topics from art and crafts to history and science. Their community-driven approach makes learning accessible and enjoyable, encouraging curiosity and creativity.
Lillstreet Art Center (Chicago): Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago provides adult classes in a wide array of artistic disciplines, including ceramics, photography, and textiles. Their supportive community and skilled instructors make it an ideal place to develop new creative skills.
If you prefer the convenience of learning from home, here are a few online platforms offering courses in various creative disciplines:
Domestika: Offers a wide range of creative courses taught by industry professionals.
Skillshare: Provides thousands of classes in design, art, and technology.
CreativeLive: Features live and on-demand workshops in various creative fields.
Udemy: Offers a plethora of courses across different categories, including arts and crafts.
Whether you're exploring local workshops or diving into online courses, there are endless opportunities to ignite your creativity, reduce stress, and build meaningful connections. Embrace the joy of making and start your creative journey today!
References
Kaimal, G., Ray, K., & Muniz, J. (2016). Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants’ Responses Following Art Making. Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association, 33(2), 74-80.
Kaimal, G., Ayaz, H., & Herres, J. (2017). Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) of brain activation during spontaneous creative dance movement: A pilot study. The Arts in Psychotherapy, 55, 33-39.
Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLoS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.
Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. Harper & Row.
Drexel University study on art creation and dopamine levels.