Is Crocheting Good For My Health?

Mom crocheting during
one of her treatments.

I have been asked on numerous occasions "why do you like to crochet?" I always think to myself, why would anyone not want to crochet? Crocheting is a beautiful and relaxing form of art. After really thinking about it for some time, I realized that I just feel better when I crochet. That's when I decided to do a bit of research to see if I was crazy or if there is really something to this. 

I came across several websites where others were feeling the same way, and I read that there are new studies exploring the health benefits of crochet, knitting and other forms of rhythmic needlework. They stated that it is an effective way for people to manage stress and can be useful for those needing help with long-term pain management. It's also beneficial for those who suffer from depression. Another article I read stated the body creates a "relaxation response" when someone crochets or knits which is similar to yoga or meditation. 

My mom and her two of her
sweet oncology nurses.

It really does make quite a bit of sense. We all know that if someone is suffering from a severe medical condition, stress can heighten the symptoms and even cause further complications. When my mom was diagnosed with cancer, we found that crocheting during her chemo treatments not only helped to pass the time, but it calmed both of us down and made it easier to handle. 

Crocheting has also created a lot of conversations. It was an ice breaker with people in the infusion room. Several nurses told us that if someone was new to chemo or seemed very scared and nervous, they would sit them next to my mom and me because they knew the person would be more at ease and would open up and talk to us simply because we were crocheting. And it worked. I can't tell you how many times we had conversations and began friendships with people who started out by asking "what are you making?"

So get your hooks out and start crocheting. It not only benefits you by helping to manage your stress levels but it also can benefit others should you choose to donate your items. 

If you are not currently a "hooker" I suggest stopping by your nearest craft store to pick up a size I/9 5.5mm crochet hook and a skein of Red Heart With Love Yarn in your favorite color. You will also need a yarn needle, craft scissors and a little patience. Crochet books are great tools for learning to crochet but I found the best way to learn is by watching beginner crochet videos on YouTube. Paula Daniele at Crochet Hooks You has several step-by-step videos, from how to hold the crochet hook to how to make your first slip knot. You'll be a pro in no time and you'll soon understand the benefits of crocheting. 

"I Crochet for Cancer" Items

We now have "I Crochet for Cancer" tote bags and window stickers available.

Visit the Crochet for Cancer Store for details.

Tote Bag - $22.50 (plus tax, $6 S&H)

Window Sticker - $12.00 (plus tax, free S&H)

100% of profits will go to help donate chemo caps to cancer patients.

Form a CFC Chapter

Forming a chapter of Crochet for Cancer (CFC) will be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. We have found that each time we deliver donations to cancer centers and hospitals we walk away knowing that we have shown love and support to people during one of the most difficult times in their life. It is an awesome responsibility and it is one that we take very serious.

We say "form" a chapter instead of "start" a chapter of CFC on purpose. The reason is that many times committees, groups, organizations are started and then easily disband or fall apart when the newness wears off or a person gets too busy to stay active. We choose to "form" a group with the intent of it lasting and growing. It will be designed so that the responsibilities can be left to the next in command if someone were to choose to step down from the Leadership position.

Deciding to become a chapter and distribution point for chemo caps and other handmade items in your community is something that should be entered into with great thought and not on a whim. Our goal is to help establish strong Christian leaders that will continue the mission of CFC for many years to come. If you feel that you may only be able to partially commit to this cause or that you may be able to volunteer for less than 2 years, I urge you to reconsider forming a chapter and perhaps join in as a volunteer with an existing group. If you have made the decision to commit to becoming a chapter leader and are willing to dedicate yourself to this cause, we are happy to have you as a part of the CFC family.

Please print and complete the CHAPTER APPLICATION (PDF). If you have any questions, please contact us at info@crochetforcancer.com.

Crochet for Childhood Cancer

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month which is represented by a gold ribbon. Let's ban together and crochet child chemo caps to donate to these beautiful kids. You are welcome to donate to your local children's hospital or you can send your items to one of our locations. Crochet Pattern Central has tons of cute and free child size cap patterns to choose from.

Please contact us at info@crochetforcancer.com if you have any questions.