Some of the benefits listed include alleviating stress, reducing anxiety, lowering blood pressure and being mindful. I definitely feel many of those benefits when I stitch - depending on the project I'm working on. Once I have a pattern on the hoop, I've chosen the color scheme and I'm working with stitches that I'm comfortable with, I can just relax and enjoy the repetitive feel of the needle moving through the fabric.
On the other hand when I'm developing a project, the process can be challenging, stimulating and frustrating. The Hand & Lock article notes the benefits from the more difficult side of stitching as well: it keeps your brain healthy, it builds confidence and allows you to express yourself.
I think it's this duality of embroidery that I love. Some days it's the method I use to check out, quiet down and relax. Other days it's what I turn to in order to challenge myself to make some needlework concept in my mind a reality (with varying degrees of success). It's a hobby that fits every mood and makes you healthier on several levels while you're doing it. That's pretty amazing!
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