Welcome back! This week I dove deeper into linking crocheting to stress relief. Several sites that I have read, mostly personal blog of other crocheters, say that the repetitive motions of crocheting help to relax the mind and promotes mindfulness. I definitely agree with this, I find it really relaxing to crochet. The simplicity of the motions along with the attentive nature of the process make it is soothing, pleasing, and addicting all at the same time. I enjoy being able to stop and start a project when it suits my schedule, typically when I get tired of doing homework, or before I go to bed. I have noticed that I have been using my phone for a shorter period of time before bed as I am busy stitching!
In a survey study at the University of Wollongong in Australia, roughly 8,000 people who crochet were surveyed. The results showed that the act of crocheting made 90% feel calmer, 82% feel happier, and 70% feel a stronger ability to focus. All of these reasons are supportive of good mental health.
I have decided to measure my stress levels in a very informal way. As I have learned, the only stressful aspect of crocheting is deciding which yarn to us. Other than that, I have found it to be to soothing. I will continue my inquiry by making various projects while simply make note of how I feel before and after crocheting. I would like to make others aware of my journey to encourage others to try out the hobby as well!
My Progress
So far, I have completed one slipper. It is not the cutest article of clothing I own, but it does the job! I went to visit my grandma to get some tips on finishing the edges nicely and decorating with the pom pom.
I think for the next slipper I will follow a different video/pattern, because with this one, I had to tie the toe all together which made it bunched up and uncomfortable. I found a video that stiches in a circular pattern, and this will eliminate the bunching and give a more seamless finish. Below is the new video I will follow. I will be making mine larger to resemble more like a slipper rather than a tighter sock!
milangiesbrecht
October 14, 2021 — 5:30 pm
Hi Ivorye!
This is the first time I have checked out your crochet journey and I am hooked! I love how you can use it as a stress relief and as a way to take a break from school without being stimulated by your phone. I got really into macrame last year as a little side hobby and I loved having something relaxing I could do away from online school. I was surprised by the statistics you posted about happiness and and focus improvement from crocheting and I think its so cool how the satisfaction of repeating the patterns and movement can do this for you. Its nice having something you can pick up at anytime! Since you started learning how to crochet have you found you are improving really quickly or is it still taking some time to get the proper technique and speed? Cant wait to see what else you create!
ivoryeeducates
October 14, 2021 — 10:24 pm
Hey! Thanks for sharing interest in my journey! I noticed that shortly after I found a comfortable position that worked for me, I was able to gain speed quickly. Due to the repetition of the same movement, it was quite easy to pick up. I catch myself sometimes getting into a speedy groove and accidentally missing a stitch ahaha (no stress though, as it is super easy to back track).
I have changed my technique moving forward though, and I have really noticed an improvement!! Tune into my next post to see the new and improved creation:)
Til’ next time!
hkantowicz
October 15, 2021 — 12:39 pm
Hi Ivorye!
I love the little pom pom! So cute! I think it’s really special that you visited your grandma and got help from her. Anytime we can connect with our older generations through a shared interest or hobby is a blessing in my books. Did you start crocheting because of your grandma or was it a coincidence? Either way I’m sure she’s thrilled to be able to spend time with you
ivoryeeducates
October 15, 2021 — 7:23 pm
Hey! like you, I truly adore connecting with my elders, especially my grandma. She taught me several textiles growing up but crochet was never one of them! I had called her out of curiosity to see if she knew much about it, and it just so happened that she has recently been picking it up as well! Just a happy coincidence:)
rhiannasblog
October 15, 2021 — 6:43 pm
Hey Ivorye!
This is such a cool inquiry project. I have never thought about how crocheting can be a stress reliever. That is awesome. I found it so interesting that the repeated motion of crocheting contributes to de-stressing.
I love how you included photos of your work! Great job! I know mine would not turn out that good if I tried! Overall, I think you are doing amazing and can’t wait to see your new creations!
I wish you the best of luck and cannot wait to see your updates on the project!
-Rhianna:)
ivoryeeducates
October 15, 2021 — 7:30 pm
Hey Rhianna,
I’m glad you enjoy the idea! When I first started, I thought the process of picking up an entirely new hobby was going to cause more stress, especially as a busy University student. But I quickly learned that I find the process relaxing. Now, I would be lying if I said it was all sunshine and rainbows. It is definitely another task added onto my to-do list, but its nice that I can go at my own pace and set it down whenever I need to….unlike other homework ahaha 🙂