By: Robert Johnson with Sawinery

Woodworking allows you to create unique and interesting things out of wood, but it also offers a number of therapeutic benefits. Many therapists suggest woodworking to clients who are suffering from depression, anxiety and even post-traumatic stress disorder.

Sometimes distracting one’s self is a good way to get temporary relief from feelings of stress and anxiety. Because woodworking is such an engaging activity, it serves as a very effective distraction from negative thoughts and feelings. It requires attention to detail, which means that is occupies your mind completely while you are doing it.

Many people find woodworking to be very soothing and relaxing, which can be extremely helpful for those who have problems with negative thinking. The repetitive motions and meticulous nature of woodworking makes it a wonderful way to relax for just about anyone.

Engaging in woodworking can also boost levels of serotonin, which is a chemical the brain produces to regulate mood. A person who is serotonin deficient can experience a number of mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. This activity can create a powerful feeling of well-being, which acts as a temporary antidote to negative emotion.

The self-confidence that you will get from creating various things out of wood can also help improve your mental health. There is definitely a strong sense of accomplishment that comes with making something with your own two hands. The more confident you feel in your own abilities to get things done, the better you will feel about yourself as a whole.

While you may not be great at it for a while, your skills will quickly improve with enough practice and dedication. The more you do this type of work, the better you will get at it. As you notice your skills level increasing, your sense of accomplishment will grow precipitously.

A creative outlet can be very useful when you are trying to maintain good mental health on a regular basis. It can help manage the stress of daily life as well as stress that come from even serious conditions like PTSD.

One important part of maintaining our mental health is keeping our minds occupied and challenged. Woodworking is an excellent way of accomplishing this, and it can be done by almost anyone at minimal expense. The more stimulated our minds are, the more difficult it is to be negatively impacted by negative thoughts and emotions.

Another important aspects of woodworking as therapy involves making goals. It can be easy to get caught up in feelings of anxiety and depression if you never make any goals for yourself. Woodworking offers you the opportunity to set goals that you can meet within a certain amount of time. You will have tangible objects to remind you of all the goals you have met over the years. Each of your woodworking creations will be a testament to your ability to get things done.

There is no question that woodworking can be very helpful to many people, especially those who struggle with negative emotions. It is a great way to supplement traditional therapy sessions because of its many mental health benefits.