It turns out those so-called “grandma hobbies” like knitting, gardening and birdwatching are quietly becoming the next big thing—and not just because they’re charming and nostalgic. These cozy pastimes are surprisingly powerful when it comes to mental health.
Researchers in Sweden have found that knitting can bring a sense of calm and structure with its concentration , especially in times of stress.
Meanwhile, a study out of the University of Colorado discovered that gardening boosts mood, encourages healthy habits and lowers anxiety. Even birdwatching, as researchers in North Carolina noted, helps reduce psychological distress and invites a moment of mindful connection.
The gentle rhythm of needles, the grounding ritual of soil and seeds, or the quiet focus of spotting a robin—all of it invites us to slow down, be present, and reconnect.
Sometimes, the old ways really are the best medicine.
