Release Anxiety “Crafts are incompatible with worry and anxiety,” states Nancy Monson, the author of Crafts to Heal: Soothing Your Soul With Sewing, Painting and other Pastimes, Monson says crafts can “help express yourself and what is inside.” A study sponsored by the Home Sewing Association found that when 30 women played cards or a video game, painted, or read the newspaper, stress, including blood pressure and heart rate, as well as, skin temperature, increased. Stress did not rise when the women were sewing. Although little research exists, the key may be that crafts require a combination of skills, repetitive action and concentration that promotes physical and
mental calm, says Monson. For example, a knitter may find that recurring movement release tension or just that the colors of the yarns brighten the mood. That is why, Monson says, it is important to find just the right craft for you. “Take a class or buy a starter kit to see if something appeals to you,” she says. It is vital too, says Monson, to let go of any guilt you may feel for spending “me” time or for ending up with a less-than-perfect project once you are done.
“It is important to enjoy the process.” Happy Crafting!!!
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