Stress is a physiological and emotional response to something that we perceive to be a threat or attack. Whilst everyday life contains the usual low-level daily stressors, it is important that we take steps to ensure that stress does not become the norm, or reach an overwhelming, unmanageable level.
Increased levels of stress over a long period of time can have a detrimental effect on both physical and mental health, therefore it is important that we take steps to ensure that we are able to cope with stress effectively.
Activities
Breathing techniques that involve timed, deliberate breaths of around 5 per minute are great for relieving stress by encouraging the brain into a relaxed state.
Sports and recreational activities are not only scientifically proven to release feel-good chemicals in the brain, but are also great for keeping physically fit and better able to deal with the stress response.
Gardening and other activities that involve being outdoors and surrounded by nature are great stress busters, allowing us to be mindful and active at the same time.
Arts, crafts, and needlework are all great stress relievers. They teach patience, resilience, and concentration. They also provide feel-good responses from the brain as we feel pride in our finished projects. Crafts can be effective in reducing the likelihood of dementia, depression, anxiety, and other mental health-related illnesses. Some charities even ‘prescribe’ craft classes as a means of helping people deal with trauma.
Crochet Kits
Crochet is a perfect craft to help reduce stress, allowing mindful activity that produces feel-good results. It is quick and easy to learn, even for the complete novice. Crochet is affordable with few materials required to get started.
Readymade crochet kits are ideal for beginners, containing everything you need to start and finish a project, including yarn, pattern, and instructions. Click here to see the latest collection of crochet kits, for inspiration on what projects you could embark on.
Although sources of stress may be something that we cannot change, nevertheless we can work to help our body learn to react differently.
