You know, those activities your grandmother used to do... knitting, sewing, crocheting... well, they're coming back in style. And it's not just nostalgia: recent studies show that these manual hobbies could reprogram your brain. Yes, seriously!
In this article, I show you why crocheting is good for your mind, your stress, and your memory, and how you can start right now to enjoy all these benefits.
🌱 The “grannycore” is back and for good reasons
The “grannycore” concept is making a big comeback, especially among younger generations. On TikTok and in craft circles, people are rediscovering gentle hobbies, slow activities, manual gestures. National Geographic mentions it: “grandma hobbies” like knitting “are making a big comeback” even among Generation Z.
Why is it coming back? Because people are looking to escape screens, to slow down. And crocheting or knitting offer a nice way out.
But this comeback is more than decorative: it activates your brain, structures neurological connections, influences stress, and keeps you mentally sharper in the long term.
🧠 How crocheting “reactivates” your brain
What’s fascinating is that crocheting (and knitting) are not just relaxing. They engage several brain systems at the same time. National Geographic describes it as a “super combination” of movement, planning, creativity, and repetition.
This can help manage stress, regulate emotions, and reduce cortisol (the stress hormone).
🎯 Activation of dopamine & reward circuit
Unlike the sudden dopamine rush from sugar or endless scrolling, crocheting offers a gentle, stable, regular reward. When your brain receives this dose of “yes, you made something beautiful,” it makes you want to keep going without realizing it.
🔄 Strengthening neural plasticity
Learning a new stitch or trying a pattern forces your brain to create new connections. When you master something, you move on to the next challenge. That’s how you keep a flexible and young brain.
🎯 How to integrate crocheting into your routine
- Choose a simple mini project: a square, a headband, an easy little amigurumi. Start with simple tutorials (mine, for example 😉).
- Set a crochet time: 15 to 20 minutes a day before sleeping or during a break is perfect.
- Vary the challenges: as soon as you master a stitch, try a new pattern or technique (your brain loves it!).
- Be gentle with yourself: no perfection here. The important thing is the process, not just the result.
🧶 Conclusion: crocheting, that “grandmother’s pastime” that refreshes your brain
Crocheting is not just pretty or relaxing. It’s a true brain wellness activity. It combines movement, concentration, creativity, and calm in a gentle, regular practice. And as grannycore proves: what our grandmothers already knew might well be one of the best mental “remedies” of the 21st century.
👉 So, are you ready to pick up your crochet hook and start? Treat yourself to this moment, one stitch at a time.
