12 Reasons People Who Knit are the Healthiest People

Lessens stress and anxiety

[Sergi\_Lopez\_Roig](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-182777387/stock-photo-a-young-woman-knitting-in-a-park-knitting-in-the-park.html) If you want to find a fun way to reduce some of the stress and anxiety in your life, try knitting. According to [Dr. Herbert Benson](http://www.bensonhenryinstitute.org/about/mission-and-history), an author known for his research regarding the art of relaxation, knitting bears a close resemblance to meditation. Knitting can lower your blood pressure and heart rate readings. Instead of assuming the traditional cross-legged pose associated with yoga, knit a sweater as a gift for someone you love.

Induces calm emotions

[adriaticfoto](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-332378951/stock-photo-female-hands-with-knitting-needles-while-knitting-knitting-therapy.html) If you have occasional angry moments, take up knitting as a hobby. When your stress and anxiety levels are reduced, you may feel less angry about a multitude of issues going on in your life. There is also a scientific reason why knitting makes you feel less angry. When you knit, your parasympathetic nervous system kicks into gear resulting in more harmonious thoughts.

Alleviates mild depression

[tibanna79](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-179480543/stock-photo-young-and-old-females-knitting-together.html)If you are like most people, you may experience a few moments now and then when you feel depressed. Instead of running to the doctor for a prescription that may cause negative side effects, knit a winter hat for yourself. The soothing, meditative rhythm of your hands automatically encourages your brain to generate happier emotions. Some psychiatrists even recommend knitting for their patients.

Increases dopamine levels

[miriam\_doerr](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-316774598/stock-photo-a-young-man-and-disabled-woman-are-knitting-together.html)Research indicates that knitting tends to [release dopamine](http://home.bt.com/lifestyle/wellbeing/healthy-hobbies-5-reasons-knitting-is-good-for-you-11363936725035) in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter commonly associated with pleasant activities. When you go out to your favorite restaurant and infuse your taste buds with delectable treats, the dopamine level in your brain becomes elevated. The elevation makes you feel happy. The same positive effect takes place when you knit. With decreased stress levels and increased feelings of joy, you are bound to see more productivity in your daily life.

Generates improved brain cognition

[oneinchpunch](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-406395595/stock-photo-old-people-group-making-activities-outdoor.html)Take up knitting today, and you may experience greater brain power in the future. Research shows that knitting, sewing, woodworking and other crafts may help prevent cognitive and memory problems. Listen to classical music while you knit a sweater for the new baby in your family. Whenever you take a few moments to relax during a busy day, you experience immediate positive results, plus you are building stronger brain cells.

Strengthens mobility in hands

[Jan\_Faukner](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-345057749/stock-photo-close-up-of-the-old-hands-knitting-process-of-knitting.html)Knitting strengthens your hands and keep your fingers in a more flexible state. If you have the ability to move your fingers and joints without experiencing pain, you are already on your way to living a healthier lifestyle. [According to Dr. Alton Barron](http://www.collective-evolution.com/2016/01/27/4-unforeseen-health-benefits-of-knitting/), an orthopedic surgeon, moving the fingers in a repetitive way hydrates the joints of the fingers. When your fingers are hydrated, your hands are less likely to have arthritic attacks.

Helps keep weight under control

[kzenon](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-324364469/stock-photo-mother-teaching-daughter-knitting.html)If you have a weight problem, knitting may provide the answer to your dilemma. Using knitting hooks and needles for one or two hours a day helps you forget about eating unhealthy snacks during your spare moments. Since knitting is also a form of meditation, the hobby can actually help you focus on your goals. When you have your weight loss goal firmly planted in your mind’s eye, you may also develop more will power to maintain a healthy dietary regime.

Lessens the urge to smoke tobacco

[speedkingz](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-208493938/stock-photo-grandmother-using-digital-tablet-as-granddaughter-knits.html)If you are desperately searching for a way to stop smoking, buy needles, hooks and yarn and start knitting. When you knit, your mind develops an attitude of mindfulness. When you practice mindfulness, you tend to eat healthier foods, drink less alcohol and stop smoking. It is impossible to smoke a cigarette, cigar or pipe while your hands are literally tied up in a ball of yarn. You may end up feeling grateful that you knit when you discover that knitting helps you conquer your habitual smoking habit.

Burns calories

[africa\_studio](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-410586556/stock-photo-mature-couple-sitting-together-on-a-armchair-at-home.html) Before you raise your eyebrows at this claim, you need to understand that all burning of calories counts, especially if you are trying to lose weight. Knit for one hour every day to burn 55 extra calories. While 55 calories may not seem like a large amount, multiply this number by seven hours a week. You can sit in a comfortable chair for one hour every day, knit a fantastic article of clothing and burn a whopping 385 calories a week.

Sharpens math skills

[a\_and\_n\_photography](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-441648310/stock-photo-closeup-portrait-granddaughter-and-grandmother-sitting-enjoying-time-together-isolated-outdoors.html)Since you do need to understand basic mathematical principles when you follow a pattern, knitting can help sharpen your math skills. If you want to improve your ability to balance your checkbook or calculate bills without the help of a calculator, give knitting a chance. You may witness improved math abilities along with a more focused mind.

Assists with coping

[cherries](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-443113762/stock-photo-elderly-woman-helping-young-woman-with-knitting.html)Whether you are experiencing a difficult divorce, an acute or chronic physical illness or even a mental illness, knitting can help you cope with your problems. While it may not eliminate every negative situation you are experiencing, knitting can definitely give you the power to face your problems and calmly look at solutions.

Emphasizes the present moment

[india\_picture](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-441237301/stock-photo-wife-teaching-her-husband-knitting.html)If you are constantly dwelling on your glorious past, you may want to spend a few hours focusing on the present. When you knit, your mind concentrates on the here and now moment. When you live in the present, you no longer dwell on past mistakes nor think about potential things that may go wrong in the future. Living each second at a time, knitting is an enjoyable, simple and inexpensive hobby that helps you experience spirituality in a practical manner.