Advice from Dr. Kathy Koch on How to Find Your Joy in 2026
Knitting is indeed a cozy hobby perfect for a cold, rainy day, but it’s also one of the best ways to support mental and emotional well-being in a screen-heavy world.
In her blog, “Why ‘Grandma Hobbies’ Might Be the Bright Spot Your Kids Need in 2026,” Dr. Kathy Koch says, “hobbies awaken parts of us we might not even know exist.” She shares an example of when she rediscovered coloring and found herself “more picture-smart than she thought.”
Dr. Koch points out that hobbies such as knitting, reading books, taking walks, coloring, sewing, crocheting, and thrifting help us slow down and make room for joy. “Joy gives energy. It awakens gratitude. It gives our kids a sense of purpose and presence that endless scrolling can’t provide.”
According to research, Dr. Kathy is on to something. Here are just some of the benefits you can get by doing repetitive hands-on hobbies, such as knitting:
1. Reduce stress and anxiety
The rhythmic, repetitive motions activate the body’s relaxation response, helping lower stress and promote calm.
2. Lower heart rate and induce calm
Knitting has been shown to produce effects similar to meditation, helping slow the heart rate and shift the nervous system into a calmer state.
3. Support brain health and help protect against cognitive decline
Engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as knitting, is associated with improved cognitive function and may help reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment as we age.
4. Improve focus and attention
Crafts that involve hand–eye coordination and sustained attention help strengthen focus and working memory—skills often weakened by constant digital distraction.
5. Support mental health, grief processing, and emotional regulation
Crocheting has been linked to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and emotional grounding—especially helpful for people managing grief, stress, or depression.
In the blog, Dr. Kathy also lists “8 Great Smarts to Help You Embrace Slower Joys,” which can result from tactile hobbies.
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Word Smart: Writing about experiencing a new hobby.
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Logic Smart: Learning patterns and problem-solving.
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Picture Smart: Coloring, sketching, or journaling.
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Music Smart: Pairing your hobby time with music.
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Body Smart: Sewing, woodworking, cooking, and walking.
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Nature Smart: Thrifting, walking, or journaling outside.
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People Smart: Doing hobbies with others.
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Self Smart: Identifying things you love that bring your joy.
Read Dr. Kathy Koch’s blog, “Why ‘Grandma Hobbies’ Might Be the Bright Spot Your Kids Need in 2026,” to learn more.
