Knitting and crochet can be 'deceptively good' for the brain, neuroscientist says
Neuroscientists suggest that crafts like knitting and crochet are beneficial for brain health by providing a mix of cognitive challenge and repetitive relaxation. These activities can improve attention spans and help with mood regulation, serving as a low-stakes way to exercise the brain.
Why it matters
Understanding the cognitive benefits of hobbies offers accessible, non-pharmacological methods for improving mental well-being and stress management.
Crafts such as knitting and crochet provide an ideal mix of challenge and repetition that can help with mood and attention span.
A neuroscientist says some crafts can be an important part of a broad brain-health regimen, along with other considerations, such as exercise, diet and sleep.
Knitter Will Seager says he finds attempting difficult patterns both calming and stimulating.
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Will Seager taught himself to knit nine years ago. Now, it's something he does every day.
"I'm naturally a little bit of an anxious person so for me it's really nice to let go of any other worries or things that I need to be thinking about and focus entirely on my knitting," Mr Seager said.
Will Seager says knitting is both relaxing and challenging. ( ABC News: Loretta Lohberger )
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