Crochet might look like just loops of yarn and a hook, but behind those stitches there’s a lot more going on. It’s not just about bags, scarves, blankets, or endless granny squares - crochet also gives your mind a mini-workout and your body an inner boost of happiness. Yep, really!
Here are five unexpected benefits of crochet:
1. Crochet is a stress-buster
When you crochet, the repetitive motion of hook in, yarn over isn’t just satisfying - it actually triggers your parasympathetic nervous system – a fancy phrase that means your ‘rest and digest’ system. This system counteracts the ‘fight or flight’ response, by dropping cortisol, slowing the heart rate, decreasing blood pressure and promoting digestion.
Basically, your brain gets a little break from life's chaos, while you create something calming and tangible. It’s like a form of meditation, only you end up with a cute bag at the end. Hooray!
2. A bootcamp for your brain
Following a pattern, counting stitches and choosing colours - it all keeps your brain gently engaged. And while it won’t turn you into a genius overnight, it does support memory, focus, and problem-solving. Think of it as a mini-workout for your mind, disguised as play.
3. Fine motor skills workout
Your hands, wrists, and fingers are busy too. Those tiny, repetitive movements help with hand-eye coordination and dexterity. For stiff joints or fingers that need to stay nimble, it’s a bonus. And the best part? While your hands are working, you’re also making something beautiful. Win–win.
4. Mindfulness without the yoga mat
Crochet is one of the easiest ways to slip into “flow” - that state where you’re absorbed in what you’re doing, time disappears, and worries fade away.
As I, Science notes:
“Knitting and crochet can elicit what’s called the flow experience … allowing everyday anxieties to fade and providing immense feelings of personal satisfaction.”
No incense, no special mat. Just yarn, a hook, and a better excuse for sitting on the couch 😉
5. Connection and Purpose
Crochet isn’t just about the stitches - it’s about what you make. Finishing a project gives you that ‘Yes, I made this!’ buzz. Gifting it? Even better.
Crochet connects people in small but meaningful ways. And when you share your work online or in a group (looking at you, Nana Sport All Stars fam), that’s where the community magic kicks in.
And if you’ve ever heard, “Why crochet? Isn’t that just for nanas?” - you can smile and reply: “Well, apart from keeping my brain sharp, relaxing my body, and making friends with similar interests, I get a unique, gorgeous bag too.Why wouldn't I?”
So next time you pick up your hook, remember - you’re not just making something super cute. You’re giving yourself calm, focus, and connection, one stitch at a time.
Speaking of which... we have just the project for you! Take a look at our kits here.
Happy cro-slaying 🧶