The Power of Hobbies - A Focus on Arts and Crafts

Engaging in hobbies has been well documented in psychological and trauma recovery research as a powerful tool for healing. Whether someone is dealing with chronic stress, PTSD, or simply the emotional weight of feeling unsafe or targeted, hobbies provide meaningful structure, expression, and even biological benefits.

In this post, we focus on the benefits of doing Arts and Crafts. 

The Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy has been used with veterans, abuse survivors, and refugees to help externalise trauma in a safe, non-verbal way. Just one study, a 2010 study in the Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, found that creative expression helped trauma survivors process their experiences and reduce dissociative symptoms.

Art Therapy allows expression of pain or fear without needing words. It helps reconnect with a sense of personal identity. It can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels.

The Benefits of Crafts Therapy

Knitting, crocheting, woodworking, or similar hands-on crafts and tasks can help regulate the nervous system through repetition and focus. For example just one study, a 2013 survey published in The British Journal of Occupational Therapy, showed that 81% of knitters reported feeling happier after knitting and many used it as a tool to cope with depression or trauma.

Doing crafts activates the parasympathetic nervous system (rest & digest), helps reduce anxiety and intrusive thoughts and provides a sense of achievement.

Ideas to Get you Started

Paint Your Own Neon Stones Kit - Over 1000 reviews and nearly 5 out of 5 stars! 💥💥💥💥💥

Sculpd Pottery Starter Kit - Complete Air Dry Clay Beginner Set for Adults: Includes Sculpting Tools, Gloss Varnish, Paint Brushes, Guide, Video Tutorials & More - A fantastic Arts and Crafts hobby and nearly 5 out of 5 stars! 💥💥💥💥💥

Glass Mosaic Candle Holder Kit - Great reviews, a nice little project and a superb looking item at the end! 💥💥💥💥💥

Keep F*cking Calm and Colour On: A Swear Word Colouring Book for Adults! Nearly 5 out of 5 stars and over 600 reviews! 💥💥💥💥💥

Create your own Terrarium with this Large Glass Greenhouse and Terrarium Starter Kit! 💥💥💥💥💥