Reasons a DIY endeavor like crafting clocks offers tranquility amidst a pandemic
In these challenging times, taking up a new hobby can offer a welcome respite and provide numerous benefits. One such hobby that has gained popularity is clockmaking. This meticulous, hands-on craft offers a multitude of advantages, particularly during a pandemic.
Engagement in a Mindful Craft
Clockmaking requires patience and attention to detail, providing a therapeutic effect by occupying mental space with productive, calming activities. This focused engagement helps reduce stress and anxiety caused by pandemic-related uncertainty [4].
Learning and Preserving a Historical Skill
Learning and mastering the art of clockmaking offers a satisfying sense of accomplishment. It connects hobbyists to a centuries-old tradition of horology, blending art and science [4]. This can be especially meaningful during times when many other activities or social interactions are limited.
Encouraging Creativity and Problem-Solving
Designing or repairing clocks enhances cognitive function and stimulates mental health during extended periods of isolation [4]. The creative process involved in clockmaking can help combat feelings of stagnation and boredom, providing a constructive outlet for one's energy.
Creating Tangible Results
The end result of clockmaking - functional timepieces or parts - can improve motivation and provide a physical reminder of progress and self-reliance.
A Practical Indoor Hobby
Clockmaking can be pursued at home with relatively few resources, making it a practical indoor hobby during lockdowns or quarantine [2][4].
Building Self-Esteem and Providing a Source of Positivity
Developing and maintaining a hobby, such as clockmaking, builds self-esteem by providing small daily successes and a solid source of positivity.
A Respite from Life's Pressures
Horology provides a respite from life's pressures, offering a chance to focus on something beautiful and intricate.
Avenues for Social Interaction
Clock collecting and repair is a great hobby to meet people, providing opportunities for collaboration, learning, and sharing knowledge with others who share the same passion.
Beneficial for Brain Health
Hobbies, such as clockmaking, are beneficial for brain health and help stave off cognitive decline, keeping one youthful [4].
A Meaningful Activity During Health Crises
Clock repair and restoration during health crises, such as a pandemic, can be seen as a meaningful activity. It offers a sense of purpose and achievement, helping to maintain a sense of normalcy during uncertain times.
Enriching One's Perspective and Fostering Character Growth
Learning new things through hobbies like clockmaking enriches one's perspective and fosters character growth. It encourages patience, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the intricacies of craftsmanship.
Combining Hobbies for Maximum Benefits
Combining hobbies, such as photography, traveling, blogging, and clock collecting, can provide additional benefits and encouragement. These activities can complement each other, providing a richer, more rewarding experience.
In conclusion, clockmaking offers both mental and emotional benefits during a pandemic by providing focused engagement, skill development, creativity, and a connection to craftsmanship history. These aspects can help mitigate feelings of isolation, anxiety, and stagnation common in prolonged stay-at-home conditions [4].
- 'Clock collecting', especially vintage clocks, is a beneficial aspect of clockmaking hobby, offering hobbyists a connection to the centuries-old tradition of horology and a means to appreciate art and science.
- Pursuing 'clock repair' during health crises, like a pandemic, can be seen as a meaningful activity, fostering a sense of purpose and achievement, and potentially contributing to personal self-development by demonstrating self-reliance and problem- solving skills.
- Engaging in clockmaking, aside from providing a welcome respite and reducing stress levels, also promotes 'education-and-self-development', enriching one's perspective, fostering character growth, and encouraging patience, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for intricate craftsmanship.
