The health benefits of knitting aren’t new. I blogged about the actual physical benefits of knitting earlier this year.
But it’s good for your mental health too. And so is baking. A recent study says that “creative activities like baking and knitting boost mental well-being.” And, reporting on the same study, “Feeling Down? Scientists Say Cooking and Baking Can Help You Feel Better,” notes that it’s all about getting creative.
New Zealand researcher, Tamlin Connor, found that participants in his study experienced a sense of “flourishing” when they engaged in little creative projects every day.
This confirms what I’ve always known. When I want to relax, cooking is my go-to, with knitting not far behind.
And ’tis the season for knitting and baking, baking and knitting, and knitting and baking some more!
And yes, these projects have increased my sense of well-being. A day when I get to stay home and cook and knit is a special day indeed!
And though this is not the Christmas pudding I will be making this year, here is a vegan steamed Christmas pudding recipe that might be worth trying. Here’s the one I have been making for over a decade, and I’ve converted it into a vegan version that turned out well the last time I made it.
Have you got a creative activity that you do regularly and have you found that engaging in it increases your sense of well-being?
