My Granny Hobby

Motherhood made me redefine what work-life balance means to me.

When I was single, work-life balance meant being able to travel to new places, try out new coffee shops, or go on a quest to find new food. Now, it looks a little different. It means having a quiet moment with my hook and yarn.

I never expected to find so much satisfaction in creating something with my hands while watching my children play in the comfort of our home. There is something special about being able to slow down, make something beautiful, and still be present with my children.

I first came across the Craftersmuse page and was amazed by how many beautiful garments she could create from a simple ball of yarn, each with a completely different design. It piqued my interest because I had never imagined that you could crochet beautiful clothes and not just sweaters or bonnets.

I was, of course, already familiar with the idea that our grannies crochet. Whenever I go to Baguio, they are often the ones I see crocheting. But when I entered the crochet community, I discovered that more and more people from the younger generation are taking up crochet and making it part of their everyday lives.

And perhaps there is a reason why.

Did you know that crafts such as knitting and crocheting can help alleviate stress and anxiety? The meditative and repetitive movements involved in these crafts can help focus the mind on the activity, potentially slowing the nervous system and reducing stress. [Henry Ford Health] 

For me, crochet has become more than just a hobby. It has become my little pause in the middle of a busy life, a way to organize my thoughts, find a moment of peace, and create something at the same time.

So the next time you feel burned out and traveling isn't an option, pick up a hook and some yarn. You might just find your way back to a little bit of peace… One stitch at a time.