When you get stressed out and overwhelmed what do you do? You might take some deep breaths or get some exercise, and those are great options to help regulate your body and mind. But sometimes your body and mind needs a little bit more to relax and recenter itself, and hobbies like quilting are the key. Crafting in general is good for your body, and as the new year comes around, now is the time to find ways to make yourself feel as healthy as possible. If your mental health is not doing well, chances are your body is feeling physical affects as well. Maybe in 2025 you can turn to quilting as a way to stay mindful and connect your body and mind.
The biggest reason crafting and quilting are good for your health is because it acts as the ultimate stress reliever. Think of all the times when you had a long day and you need a distraction to help you keep moving. Quilting does just that in a productive way. Not only does it get your mind off the everyday stressors, but it helps teach you new things and boosts your creativity. When people have an avenue to help themselves calm down, it will also help their body flourish.
“There are tons of benefits of quilting, including physical ones. Not only does it serve as a wonderful stress reliever, providing a way to help calm the mind and ease anxiety, but it has been shown to enhance cognitive function and mental health, boosting memory, self-esteem, and overall well-being. It also improves hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which are especially beneficial for us as we age or those living with disabilities,” says Corey Pearson, Chief Quilt Artist and Brand Ambassador at Linda’s.
Besides quilting being a good distraction, it can help people step out of their comfort zone and try something new. Instead of spending your time on your phone or watching TV, you can stimulate your brain in a more productive manner. There is always something to learn when it comes to quilting or crafting in general, and having a hobby that you practice regularly can give you something to look forward to. Staying creative can give people a sense of accomplishment that could be lacking in their everyday lives.
Quilting also opens so many different doors for people. There is a huge community of people out there who love to quilt and craft, so don’t be afraid to meet new people. Joining a quilting group in-person or online can help people feel a different sense of belonging, and this has mental and physical benefits as well. The more people feel connected to their craft and the people around them, the happier they will be.
“Quilting also opens doors to new friendships and community connections, as joining groups or workshops connects you with like-minded individuals. It really instills a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment, offering tangible outcomes and a feeling of accomplishment. It also promotes mindfulness, requiring focused attention that helps keep you present. I have seen how quilting truly enriches life, providing tons of benefits to those who do it,” Pearson says.
Keeping your body and mind healthy goes beyond just eating healthy and exercising. Those are good things to do, but sometimes people need more to feel complete. Quilting and crafting is an avenue to stay creative and productive. The opportunities are endless when it comes to quilting and staying motivated in the craft can be a good stress reliever for people.
When your mind is feeling fulfilled, so will your body. The world is chaotic and peoples’ schedules are usually pretty busy, but finding time in your week to quilt can help you stay on top of your game overall. When your mind is taken care of, your body will be able to work for you in the way it’s supposed to. You will get more out of quilting than just a cool blanket.