When you think of exercise, you probably imagine physical activities like running. However, as you age, exercising your brain becomes equally important as caring for your physical body. Knitting might be the perfect activity for this as it comes with a whole set of benefits for your mind, body and soul. Here are some reasons why knitting is one of the best hobbies to have while staying at 55+ apartments in Spring, TX.
Knitting Sharpens Your Brain
Knitting gives your brain a regular challenge since it engages many parts of the brain every time you do it. There are always new things relating to needles, yarn and stitches to learn. Every project you embark on would have different patterns depending on the product you knit, introducing novel concepts to the mind which can strengthen your memory. This form of brain stimulation significantly decreases cognitive decline by 30 to 50 percent, according to a neuropsychiatry study.
Knitting Helps Maintain Motor Skills
Knitting involves continuous nimble hand movements that maintain dexterity and strength, helping you retain your grip. These movements build joint cartilage, which can prevent arthritis or reduce pain if you already experience this condition. The process of knitting also forces your brain and hands to work together to improve hand-eye coordination.
Knitting as a Form of Meditation
Doing so many repetitive movements has also led to many knitters feeling calm and relaxed. Knitting requires you to develop rhythm and focus during knitting, and these are steps commonly used in meditation exercises. As you enter this state of relaxation, your heart rate and blood pressure decrease which has long-term health benefits like preventing heart disease. Our community also has many conducive areas for you to knit peacefully, such as an arts and crafts studio, landscaped gardens and elegant terraces.
Knitting Helps to Boost Confidence
After creating beautifully knitted scarves or blankets, you will experience a sense of accomplishment that can give your life additional purpose. Your works of art can also be good conversational topics with friends and family. If they are interested, you could even teach your loved ones how to knit, creating a new bonding activity that can increase your emotional well-being.
Knitting Keeps You Busy
Your days at the retirement community will be filled with many exciting activities, day trips and dinner parties, but there will surely be some downtime every day for you to chill out. Instead of turning to mindless hobbies or bad habits like watching television or snacking, knitting serves as a great way for you to keep busy. Starting a knitting project can be one of the ways that you add variety to your routine or when you want to take a break from socializing and give yourself some quiet time.
