3 minute read
The craft box often used as a therapeutic resource
The craft box often used as a therapeutic resource
Research shows that taking part in craft-related activities can positively impact anxiety, depression, loneliness and dementia. Crafting can give people a sense of achievement, having created something and learnt a new skill.
We speak to Hannah Read-Baldrey, the co-founder of MakeBox+Co, a craftbased subscription box to find out more about the therapeutic benefits of crafting.
MakeBox+Co is a craft-based box which is used as atherapeutic resource, often by social workers. Launchedin 2019, it specialises in helping people “connectwith their creative spirit and invest time in themselvesand each other.” Each box within the subscriptionfeatures a different craft activity, allowing the user tosimultaneously switch-off from the pressures that theymay be feeling and learn a new skill at the same time.Whether the user is a complete beginner or an avidcrafter, the end result is a sense of achievement and atangible item to enjoy and be proud of.
It’s a perfect resource to share with people who maybe feeling anxious, depressed or stressed. They can beused to help build confidence and self-esteem throughthe development of a specific skill. Social workers couldeven use the box themselves as a way to destress,unwind and relax.
“Each month you receive a box full of craft materials.You can either follow the instructions to make a lovelygift, or you can simply follow your own instincts. Thereare no right or wrong approaches to crafting – thematerials can be used as a springboard for yourimagination to create something unique”.
Using crafts to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety.
In a world where we are expected to follow rules,there’s something comforting about being guided byyour imagination. The ability to sit and focus solelyon one small activity has been proven to lower stresslevels and reduce anxiety. In a 2018 research reportcreated by University College London’s MARCH mentalhealth network, Dr. Daisy Fancourt wrote that “culturalactivities encourage gentle movement, reduce socialisolation and lower inflammation and stress hormones,such as cortisol.”
Hannah believes that part of the reason that craftingprovides such therapeutic relief is because of increasedworking pressures.
“Living in this ‘always on’ modern world of smartphonesand 11pm emails from the boss, it can often feel likeyou’re permanently at your desk! Where is the ‘me’time? When do we find those moments to stop workingand do something different for a change?”
“Creative activity of any sort, but particularly crafting, can bring incredible benefits to mental health and wellbeing. Spending time making something, i.e. using your hands to knit, fold, mould or draw, keeps your mind engaged but focused on the external activity; likened to periods of mindful meditation where you are fully in the present. You also get the satisfaction of having made something!”
Don’t be afraid to try something new.
Hannah uses the term “craft-fullness” and believes that everyone should take the time to try something new, even those who have never considered themselves a ‘crafty’ person.
“Don’t be afraid of creating something, it’s the process that matters. The end result is a bonus. Everyone needs a little time to relax and get creative – and that’s where hobbies like crafting come in; it’s something a little
different. It’s time dedicated to a specific task, with a specific purpose: personal fulfilment.”
Want to get involved?
MakeBox+Co have kindly provided us with some discount codes, allowing you to try a range of their craft boxes.
Use SHOPBOX15 to enjoy a 15% discount off two boxes or more. Alternatively, use OFFMYBOX20 for 20% off your first subscription box.
They also have a range of free downloadable resources available via their Make Blog. Hannah regularly hosts live Instagram demonstrations to give further craftrelated inspiration.
To find out more about MakeBox+Co, visit makebox.co or simply email info@makebox.co. Alternatively, you can follow @makebox.co on Instagram
