5 years ago, my son Miles was sick with Leukemia. We spent endless hours and days in the hospital. I was sick with worry and didn't know what to do with myself. Knitting and crocheting saved me. It gave me something to do to forget what was going on for a moment and it gave me something to work towards. It really is a life saving hobby and I believe in it's many benefits. Now there is proof! Jane E. Brody, who writes a blog for the NY Times, has written a wonderful article on the subject. (See link below)
According to the article, knitting and crocheting can reduce blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol. It is great for your self-esteem and gives you a satisfaction of creating something. Betsan Corkhill is a wellness coach based in Bath and has a list of ways that knitting can help with pain, depression, stress and even addiction. Her website Stitchlinks is an amazing resource and a revelation and she claims that knitting and stitching can help learn skills such as patience, perseverance and communication.
When I lived in Jordan I used to visit my neighbors and teach them stitching and crochet. After seeing how it gave them self confidence and joy I decided to contact the people in charge of the refugee accommodation here in my home town. I hope this will be as beneficial to them as it has been to me when I was in a difficult place.
So, get knitting and improve your health!
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