March is National Craft Month, and this week we are discussing different types of crafts, how being crafty and creative can improve health, and providing examples from our team on crafts we have made! Before we dive in, here are this week’s affirmations:

What do you think of when you hear the word “crafts”? For some people, the first things that comes to mind may be arts and crafts, or words like glitter, glue, or paints. Others may think of DIY projects or intricate arts such as woodworking or pottery.  The dictionary definition of crafts is “an activity that involves making something in a skillful way by using your hands”. Basically, anything you create is a craft, a work of art! 

Everyone needs a “creative outlet”, meaning having a space and time to express yourself creatively to maintain a healthy and peaceful lifestyle. The beauty of crafting is that there is no one right or wrong way to do it, and the same goes for the space you chose to craft. Want to doodle on the side of your paper? Go for it! Have a room in your house dedicated to your sewing materials? Sure, why not! DIY projects at the kitchen counter? Who says you can’t! The important part is to do what you are comfortable doing, wherever makes sense for you.  

Having a creative outlet and being able to dedicate time to your craft can help improve your overall health, physical and mental! The biggest mental benefits of crafting are decreased levels of stress or anxiety, and increased levels of self-esteem and self-confidence. The act of crafting could be considered therapeutic due to the focus and attention to detail that people put into their crafts. When you are so focused on the craft, it can take attention away from what may be bothering you or making you feel stressed. At the same time, being able to look at your creation and think “Hey, I made this!” can be a self-esteem boost! Even if your craft did not come out perfect or the way you imagined, it is a positive act to know that you can create something new.

Crafting also increases physical health for all ages through both gross motor skills and fine motor skills, especially children as they are beginning to develop skills and build muscles. Motor skills are actions that use and strengthen muscles. Gross motor skills are the larger movements and larger muscles, so the arms, legs, or entire body. Examples of crafts that improve gross motor skills include automotive crafts (building cars, putting together bicycles, or similar projects), pottery, woodworking, and carpentry. The fine motor skills are smaller movements and smaller muscles, so the hands, fingers, toes, and facial muscles. Examples of crafts that improve fine motor skills include sewing, embroidery, jewelry making, drawing, and painting. Motor skills are especially important for younger youth (such as toddlers) as they are in the early stages of developing their muscles. Crafting is a great way to build these skills that is fun and can keep kiddos entertained (bonus!). To learn more about crafting benefits for younger youth, visit https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/the-importance-of-art-in-child-development. To find crafting ideas for youth by age, visit https://www.pbs.org/parents/learn-grow/all-ages/arts. 

Since crafting is the act of making something by using your hands, different muscles are constantly being used and strengthened. Movement is good for the body in general but having a craft or creative outlet can help ensure that your body and muscles stay active! Crafting is also an opportunity to connect and spend quality time with the people in your life whether it is a friend, a family member, or your youth! Whether you chose to paint pictures together, knit a blanket, or build a new shelf, crafting with someone else brings added benefits! Visit https://www.waterford.org/resources/indoor-crafts-for-kids/ for ideas of crafts that can be done with families or any ages!

We asked the Touchstone Health Services Prevention Department to share some of their own crafts! Check them out below! 

Here’s How YOU Can Be A (Crafty) Prevention Partner: