In a world all about speeding up, Gen Z is slowing down. By trading their screens for knitting needles, this generation is making an effort to navigate digital burnout and improve mental health.
“Grandma hobbies” or “analog hobbies” are hobbies, typically associated with older generations, that emphasize patience, creativity and tangibility. This can include knitting, crocheting, gardening, needlework, birdwatching, baking and more.
These kinds of hobbies not only offer a creative and calming outlet but also improve physical health. Studies show “grandma hobbies” promote cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure and improve fine motor skills.
In addition to the physical benefits that “grandma hobbies” offer, they lower cortisol levels and release dopamine and serotonin. This reduces anxiety and depression, enhances cognitive function and promotes neuroplasticity by keeping the brain engaged in a meditative and creative activity.
“Knitting is kind of this golden trifecta for brain stimulation. It demands physical coordination, creative thinking, and repetitive hands-on movements,” National Geographic Intern Addison Lee said.
The appeal of these hobbies lies in something the digital world lacks: tangibility. When working on a project that creates a tangible product, hobbyists can feel the joy and productivity of making something with their hands, something scrolling online cannot replicate.
Gen Z can’t escape technology. With school, work and most communication done through online platforms, it is nearly impossible to go a day without a screen.
This trend of offline hobbies is one among many efforts of Gen Z to combat phone dependence. “Grandma hobbies,” like switching to dumb phones, developing app blockers and fighting for more third locations, are just another example of the opposite reaction to rapid technological advancement.
73% of new crocheters are between the ages of 18 and 34, according to Crochet Penguin. This trend is not just a fleeting attempt to disconnect, but rather a transition back to a more analog world.
Getting involved in these hobbies is easy, too. Schools and universities across the country are offering fiber arts clubs— promoting spaces to reset, socialize and learn a new skill.
“You just come hang out for 2 hours and you can create what you want, do what you want, and then sometimes take the stuff on with you,” University of Maryland Crocheting for a Cause President Kaedyn Anderson said. “Especially with high-stress majors and things like that. It’s just a good outlet,” he said.
In a generation defined by technology and instant gratification, the trend of slow-paced, off-screen activities is unexpected, but meaningful. Digital burnout and social media addiction continue to be prevalent, yet downplayed issues. Gen Z is going forward by taking a step back, and knitting a new sweater along the way.