Grandma hobbies are back in vogue, here’s why doing them is good for your brain

Grandma hobbies are traditional, hands-on activities, like crocheting and knitting, that require you to slow down and take your time doing them (Image: Pexels)

• Traditional 'grandma hobbies' like knitting and baking are gaining popularity.
• These hobbies boost mental health, focus, and reduce stress.
• Activities like these became more popular during and after the Covid pandemic.

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Think about the good old times when reading a book or knitting a sweater in the noon with a cuppa tea was highly enjoyable. In the stressful times we live in, it feels highly comforting to be able to do that. And that’s the reason why cosy ‘grandma hobbies’ are gaining popularity. It’s an inexpensive way of self-care that also has health benefits.

What are ‘grandma hobbies’?

Grandma hobbies are traditional, hands-on activities that require you to slow down and take your time doing them. They are also creative and mentally stimulating. Some of them include:

• Sewing
• Quilting
• Crocheting and Knitting
• Embroidery and Needlework
• Baking
• Canning
• Gardening
• Reading
• Birdwatching
• Jigsaw Puzzles
• Board Games

Why are they in vogue?

While some of these activities never really went out of fashion, they gained popularity during Covid. Later, many continued to enjoy them, as it not only honed their skills, but also became a shared experience with loved ones; either through gifting a newly made knit or playing games together.

Also read | Ditch the screen: Cultivate these 8 healthy hobbies to stay fit and happy

Health benefits of grandma hobbies

When you’re unwinding with activities that require craft and skill, you are benefitting in more ways than one, especially when it comes to mental health:

Enhance cognitive performance

According to research, learning new skills, whether knitting, baking, or playing an instrument, can enhance cognitive function and memory. It helps the brain to adapt and change by creating new connections between its cells. This is why it’s also said to reduce risk of dementia and cognitive decline in older adults.

Improve concentration and attention

When you are deeply engaged in an activity, it helps improve focus and attention. Research shows that knitters particularly benefit, as it helps organise their thoughts and work through problems more easily.

Also read | Gardening, painting, more: 10 stress-busting hobbies, why they work

Bring you joy

Hobbies are meant to bring joy and so it’s no surprise that knitting, baking, crocheting, and other activities improve mood. The rush or excitement of doing something new helps you feel good, especially when the outcome is impressive.

Reduces stress and helps you relax

These activities help you unwind and engage your mind in a way that it helps you feel less stressed. They bring a sense of calm and help you relax by diverting your energy into something constructive. This keep anxiety and burnout at bay.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.