A string of yarn and a metal hook, though as simple as it seems, can create numerous astounding projects. This hobby is better known as crocheting, and it is commonly overlooked by many high school students. Crocheting requires time, energy, and especially patience to learn; therefore, the result and product of this work is far more rewarding. Students at Yorba Linda High School should be encouraged to learn crocheting as it can benefit in both long and short term ways.
Currently, teenagers vastly rely on their cell phones and electronics to stimulate the brain through the production of dopamine. Although our cell phones suffice for temporary satisfaction, they can result in issues such as reliance and addiction. With new studies proving that more screen time is directly correlated to negative consequences, it is important for students, in these crucial developmental ages, to steer away from screens. A potential solution could be to begin crocheting, since it offers the same reaction as an electronic device without the negative consequences. Crocheting has even been linked to boosting the user’s self-esteem and overall mood. As mentioned by Lena Seo (9), “I often feel drawn to my phone, due to many social media platforms, but I feel that with crocheting, I can steer away from my electronics and use my time towards helpful hobbies”.
Additionally, with students’ schedules being overtaken by coursework and extracurriculars, it is common for them to accumulate mental stress. For instance, students often feel that they lack time to partake in activities for pleasure because they are under the impression that it is unbeneficial and time-consuming. On the contrary to these beliefs, crocheting offers both mental relaxation and valuable insights. Since crocheting has distinct repetitive motions, it contributes to a stable state of mind, similar to meditation. This allows students time to reflect and enjoy moments of peace within their day.
In addition to all of these benefits, crocheting also reduces the risk of many rising health issues. With all the stresses that come with school and life in general, students may find themselves at risk of Insomnia or having trouble falling asleep. According to Hemptique, crocheting is an active way to combat issues, like Insomnia, because repetitive motions allow the body to calm and soothe to sleep. Crocheting can reduce the risk of contracting mental diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Research by the American Journal of Psychiatry has proven that crocheting can lead to a 30-50% reduced risk of acquiring the disease since it is a way to keep individuals’ minds occupied. By participating in this activity, the cognitive side of the brain becomes stimulated, leading to a slower progression of Alzheimer’s.
Due to all the benefits from crocheting, many students at Yorba Linda High School should partake in this mental exercise. Teenagers are often unaware of what crocheting offers, and, according to Leah Seung (9), “I’ve never considered crocheting as I believed it would be difficult to weave into my schedule, but after learning about the gains from this activity, I will definitely consider starting in the near future”. Not only is it fun and creative, but it can also enhance performance at school and even in extracurricular activities. Crocheting is not a hobby to be overlooked, as there are many hidden advantages.
