Making arts and crafts improves your mental health as much as having a job, scientists find

Southampton, Pennsylvania (CNN) — Walking into my grandmother’s house, I watch her hands move in a fast-weaving motion as stitches extend from her knitting needles. Beside her are layered stacks of knit blankets, scarves and ponchos stitched with carefully selected color schemes and patterns made of wool yarn. She donates these blankets to children’s hospitals and foster homes.

Her favorite pastime is creating. She is always crafting, whether it’s knitting, coloring, scratch art or most recently, dabbling in gem art. These activities provide her satisfaction and purpose in ways more fulfilling than work.



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