Research shows that the repetitive motions and concentration required for knitting can help regulate emotions and control compulsive habits.
The weaving It seems to have gained the attention of research scientists in recent years if creative activity like him, he can help manage it stress and addictive behaviors.
How knitting affects stress
Experts believe that the benefits of knitting are mainly due to the rhythmic, repetitive movements of the hands and the concentration required by the process. OR Mia Hobbs Renowned clinical psychologist and podcast creator in London “Why do I knit” explains how such actions can activate parasympathetic nervous system this helps the body return to a calm state after periods of stress.
At the same time, A creative activity involving the hands, diverts attention from stressful thoughts. For this reason, some experts believe that this knitting can also help manage compulsive or addictive habits.
What research shows about knitting
THE Carl Birmingham Professor of Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia, has been dealing with this issue for several years. The In 2009, he conducted research in a treatment center for young women who are severe eating disorderssuch as anorexia and bulimia.
Patients followed a strict treatment regimen, which often caused them intense anxiety. According to the results, approx 75% of participants reported that knitting helped them reduce stressful thoughts A fact that he characterizes the food around as particularly impressive.
Evidence for similar benefits has also emerged surveys in addiction centers. In one A study published in 2024women participating in a substance abuse treatment program, it appeared that they reduced their cigarette consumption while participating in an intervention called “braid to go out”
However, Alison West The associate professor of the Department of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University and the lead author of the study notes that the results should be interpreted with caution. As he explained, the participants at the same time, they watched educational discussions about the harms of smoking therefore, the change cannot be definitely attributed to the braid alone.
Similar findings were recorded in one Research prior to 2007 in which women in chemical dependency treatment – from alcohol, heroin or prescription drugs – were encouraged to take up knitting as an activity during treatment.
Although a few of them had difficulty learning the technique at first, many reported it over time knitting became an important tool to cope with the stress caused by withdrawal symptomscourt appointments or family obligations.
A simple daily balance tool
Despite these encouraging findings, it is based on research small groups of participants and larger and systematic studies are needed to confirm the benefits.
However, interest in this activity is increasing because a simple, economical and easily accessible activity, can be integrated into daily life. Experts focus on weaving it is certainly not a cure for mental disorders or addictions.
But it can work as one a practical self-regulation toolit helps some people shift their focus away from stressful thoughts and create a calmer rhythm to their daily lives.
SOURCE: BBC