Mgarlic, crochet, gardening and puzzles. The ones that are often defined grandmother’s hobby are experiencing new popularity among people of all ages. It’s not just about relaxing pastimesbut of activities increasingly recognized for their positive effects on the mind and psychological well-being.
The brain also trains with pleasure
According to a new study published in Frontiers in Psychologydedicate yourself to creative or manual hobbies stimulates the brain actively. Activities like Knitting or solving puzzles requires concentration, coordination and problem solvingelements that help keep the mind trained. Furthermore, when you fully immerse yourself in a pleasurable activity, you enter a state called “flow”, one mental condition in which attention is total and stress tends to be reduced.
Reduce stress, increase well-being
One of the most obvious benefits of these hobbies is the ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Repetitive and creative activities help slow down thoughts, promoting a feeling of calm. It is no coincidence that many experts underline how dedicating yourself to a hobby represents a real “mental break” from the daily frenzy, with positive effects on mood and emotional resilience.
Creativity and self-esteem: the value of creating something
Finishing a project — whether it’s a scarf, a tended plant, or a completed puzzle — generates satisfaction and strengthens self-esteem. Psychologists highlight that having small personal goals and achieving them helps to improve the sense of efficacy and accomplishmentfundamental elements for psychological well-being.
Active mind and healthier aging
Cognitive and manual activities stimulate neuroplasticityor the the brain’s ability to create new connections. This helps maintain memory, attention and cognitive abilities for longer. According to the study by Frontiers in Psychologypeople who share hobbies typical of older adults are more likely to live up to 8 years longer than those who do not practice these activities.
iO Donna © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED