Natural Remedies for Inflammation: What Science Is Discovering

If you live with an autoimmune condition, you know how frustrating chronic inflammation can be. It’s your body trying to protect you—but sometimes it goes too far, causing pain, swelling, and long-term damage.

Doctors often prescribe medications like NSAIDs (think ibuprofen or diclofenac) to calm inflammation. But these drugs can come with side effects, especially if you take them often. That’s why scientists are exploring safer, plant-based options—and the results are promising.

What Did This Study Look At?

Researchers used computer simulations (called “in-silico” methods) to test natural compounds from traditional medicinal plants. They wanted to see if any of these plant chemicals could block COX-2, an enzyme that plays a big role in inflammation.

Plants That Showed Promise

They studied compounds from plants like:

• Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

• Neem (Azadirachta indica)

• Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum)

• Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) …and several others.

Four natural compounds stood out:

• Solasonine

• Solamargine

• Rutin

• Glycyrrhizin

These had stronger anti-inflammatory potential than diclofenac, a common NSAID.

Why It Matters for You

• Less risk to the heart: Some of these natural compounds may be gentler on your heart than traditional meds.

• Better body absorption: Especially rutin, which showed good results for how it moves through and works in the body.

• Stable and strong: The compounds stayed stable when bound to the COX-2 enzyme, which is a good sign for effectiveness.

What’s Next?

This was a computer-based study, so it’s not ready for the pharmacy shelf yet. Scientists still need to test these compounds in the lab and in people. But it’s a hopeful step toward safer, natural options for managing inflammation.

ORIGINAL RESEARCH

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT RUTIN

WHAT FOODS AID THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

I’m Taking Thyroid Medication… So Why Do I Still Feel Awful?

I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis quite a few years ago, and like many people, I was prescribed thyroid hormone replacement—levothyroxine. I thought that would be the fix. My labs started looking “normal,” but I didn’t feel normal. I was still exhausted, foggy, gaining weight without explanation, and constantly battling mood swings. It felt like my body was betraying me, even though I was doing everything “right.”

So I started digging. And what I found changed everything.

Hashimoto’s Isn’t Just a Thyroid Problem

What I didn’t realize at first is that Hashimoto’s is actually an autoimmune condition. My immune system is attacking my thyroid, and the medication only replaces the hormones—it doesn’t stop the attack. That’s why symptoms can persist even when your TSH levels look fine.

I learned that healing Hashimoto’s requires a whole-body approach. Here’s what I’ve been trying—and what’s actually helping.

1. Tackling Inflammation

Chronic inflammation is a huge part of autoimmune disease. I started by cutting out gluten and dairy, which are common triggers for people with Hashimoto’s. I also added more anti-inflammatory foods like wild salmon, berries, turmeric, and leafy greens. Within weeks, I noticed less joint pain and fewer energy crashes.

 2. Supporting My Gut

I kept reading that 70–80% of the immune system lives in the gut. That blew my mind. I did a food sensitivity test, through the hospital, and discovered I had issues with salicylates. I also started taking a high-quality probiotic and added bone broth to my routine. My digestion improved, and surprisingly, so did my brain fog.

3. Checking Nutrient Levels

Even though I was taking thyroid meds, my body was still low in key nutrients. I got tested and found out I was deficient in:

• Selenium

• Zinc

• Vitamin D

• B12

I added targeted supplements (with guidance from a functional medicine practitioner), and it made a noticeable difference in my energy and mood.

4. Managing Stress (For Real)

I used to roll my eyes at the idea that stress could affect my thyroid. But cortisol plays a huge role in hormone balance. I started doing breathwork, journaling, and walking outside daily. I also made sleep a priority—no more scrolling at midnight. It’s not perfect, but I feel more grounded and less reactive.

5. Rethinking My Medication

This one was tricky. I learned that some people don’t convert T4 (levothyroxine) into T3 (the active hormone) efficiently. I spoke with my doctor about trying a combination therapy that includes T3, and it’s been a game-changer. If your symptoms persist, it’s worth exploring options like natural desiccated thyroid or compounded meds.

Final Thoughts

If you’re living with Hashimoto’s and still feel awful despite taking your meds, you’re not crazy—and you’re definitely not alone. Your body is asking for deeper support. For me, healing has been about listening, researching, and making small but powerful changes.

I’m still on the journey, but I finally feel like I’m moving forward—not just surviving.

Kaempferol: A Natural Ally for Your Immune System

Living with an autoimmune condition can feel like your body is fighting itself. But what if a natural compound found in everyday foods could help calm that storm? Meet Kaempferol—a plant-based flavonoid with powerful immune-balancing effects.

What Is Kaempferol?

Kaempferol (KMF) is a yellow pigment found in many fruits and vegetables—like apples, strawberries, beans, carrots, and even ginkgo leaves. It’s part of a group called flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers.

Scientists have discovered that KMF doesn’t just protect cells—it also helps regulate the immune system in smart, flexible ways.

How Kaempferol Supports the Immune System

KMF works like a gentle conductor, helping different immune cells stay in balance. Here’s how:

• T Cells (the decision-makers) KMF helps calm overactive T cells, which are often involved in autoimmune flare-ups. It also encourages a healthier mix of T cell types—reducing inflammation and promoting tolerance.

• Natural Killer Cells (the body’s defenders) KMF boosts their ability to fight cancer and infections. It even improves gut health, which helps these cells work better.

• Dendritic Cells (the messengers) Depending on the situation, KMF can either activate or calm these cells—helping your body respond appropriately to threats without overreacting.

• Neutrophils & Eosinophils (the first responders) KMF reduces their overactivity, which can help with allergic reactions and chronic inflammation.

• Mast Cells (involved in allergies) KMF blocks the release of histamine and other chemicals that trigger allergic symptoms.

• Macrophages (the clean-up crew) KMF encourages a shift from “angry” macrophages to “healing” ones—especially helpful in chronic illness and tissue repair.

Why It Matters for Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune diseases often involve a confused or overactive immune system. KMF helps restore balance without shutting the system down completely. It’s like turning down the volume instead of cutting the power.

Researchers believe KMF could be useful in conditions like:

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Psoriasis

• Allergic asthma

• Inflammatory bowel disease

• Even cancer-related immune dysfunction

How to Get Kaempferol

You can find KMF in:

• Apples 🍏

• Strawberries 🍓

• Beans 🫘

• Carrots 🥕

• Broccoli 🥦

• Ginkgo leaves 🌿

• Green tea 🍵

While food sources are gentle and safe, supplements may offer higher doses—but always check with a healthcare provider first, especially if you’re on medication or managing multiple conditions.

Final Thoughts

Kaempferol isn’t a magic cure, but it’s a promising tool in the autoimmune toolkit. It supports your body’s natural wisdom—helping your immune system respond with more clarity and less chaos.

If you’re exploring gentle, plant-based ways to support your health, Kaempferol might be worth a closer look.

You can read the full scientific review .

Common Causes of Morning Nausea when living with autoimmune disease

 

1. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Overnight fasting can cause your blood sugar to drop, especially if you didn’t eat much the night before. This can trigger nausea, shakiness, or lightheadedness upon waking.

2. Dehydration

Even mild dehydration can lead to nausea. If you’re not drinking enough water during the day—or losing fluids overnight through sweating or medications—you might wake up queasy.

3. Acid Reflux or GERD

Lying flat can allow stomach acid to creep upward, especially if you ate late or have reflux. This can cause nausea, a sour taste, or burning in the throat.

4. Stress or Anxiety

Morning dread, anticipatory stress, or chronic anxiety can manifest physically. The vagus nerve, which connects your gut and brain, plays a role in this gut-brain loop.

5. Medication Side Effects

Some medications (especially painkillers, antidepressants, or supplements like iron) can cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach or before bed.

6. Sleep Disruption or Fatigue

Poor sleep quality or abrupt waking (like from an alarm) can trigger nausea. Your body may still be in a stress response mode when you wake.

What You Can Try

• Eat a small snack before bed (e.g., a banana or a few crackers) to stabilize blood sugar.

• Hydrate first thing in the morning—a glass of water with a pinch of salt or lemon can help.

• Elevate your head while sleeping to reduce reflux.

• Track your medications and consider timing or food pairing.

• Practice gentle morning routines—slow breathing, stretching, or quiet time before rushing into the day.

If this persists or worsens, it’s worth checking in with a GP or integrative practitioner. They may explore thyroid function, gut health, or hormonal shifts—especially if you’re navigating chronic illness or fatigue.

Practical Steps for Managing an Autoimmune Disease

Living with any autoimmune disease, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes or Sjogren's Disease, requires proactive management to maintain your health and quality of life. Below are general steps to help you navigate your condition effectively:

1. Stay Informed About Your Condition and Research
   Keep yourself updated on your autoimmune disease and emerging treatments, such as regulatory T cell (Treg) therapies, through reputable sources. Join patient advocacy groups like the Lupus Foundation of America, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, or Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation for reliable information and support. Discuss potential clinical trials or new therapies with your healthcare provider to explore future treatment options.

2. Communicate Regularly with Your Healthcare Team
   Schedule regular check-ins with your doctor (e.g., rheumatologist, endocrinologist, or other specialists) to monitor your condition and discuss new symptoms, treatment adjustments, or emerging research like Treg-based therapies. Ask specific questions about how new findings might apply to your disease and whether they could impact your treatment plan in the future.

3. Adhere to Your Prescribed Treatment Plan
   Follow your doctor’s recommendations for medications, such as immunosuppressants, anti-inflammatories, or biologics, to manage symptoms and prevent flares. Report any side effects promptly and don’t skip doses, as consistency is key to controlling disease activity.

4. Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Lifestyle
   If appropriate for your condition, consider an anti-inflammatory diet (e.g., Mediterranean-style, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil or fish). Consult a dietitian to ensure it suits your needs, as dietary triggers vary (e.g., gluten for celiac disease). Incorporate low-impact exercise like walking or yoga to support joint health and reduce stress, but avoid overexertion, which can trigger flares.

5. Manage Stress and Mental Health
   Chronic illness can impact mental health, increasing risks of anxiety or depression. Practice stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or gentle stretching. Consider connecting with a therapist or support group to share experiences and coping strategies with others who understand your challenges.

6. Monitor Symptoms and Track Triggers
   Keep a journal to track symptoms, flares, and potential triggers (e.g., stress, foods, or weather changes). Share this with your doctor to identify patterns and adjust your management plan. Being proactive about recognizing early warning signs can help prevent severe flares.

7. Build a Support Network
   Surround yourself with supportive family, friends, or community groups who understand your condition. Online or in-person support groups for your specific autoimmune disease can provide emotional support and practical tips for daily living.

By following these steps, you can take control of your health, stay informed about advancements like Treg-based therapies, and work closely with your healthcare team to manage your autoimmune disease effectively. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your treatment or lifestyle.

Specific help for:

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

ACR Guidelines for living with Rheumatoid Arthritis 

Sjogren's info has hundreds of articles for managing and understanding Sjogren's Disease.

Living with the Fatigue of Autoimmune Disease - 10 tips

Nourishing from the Inside: Food Sources of Vitamin D

While sunshine is the most well-known source of vitamin D, many people with autoimmune disease — especially those with fatigue, or sun sensitivity—may struggle to get enough through sunlight alone. Thankfully, certain foods can help bridge the gap.

Here are some naturally rich and fortified sources of vitamin D:

Food	Type of Vitamin D	Approximate Amount per Serving
Salmon (wild-caught, cooked)	D3	600–1000 IU per 100g
Sardines (canned in oil)	D3	270 IU per 100g
Cod liver oil	D3	~450 IU per teaspoon
Egg yolks	D3	~40 IU per yolk
Mushrooms (UV-exposed)	D2	400–500 IU per 100g
Fortified plant milks (almond, oat, soy)	D2 or D3	100–150 IU per cup
Fortified cereals	D2 or D3	40–100 IU per serving

Tips for absorption:

• Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so pair it with healthy fats (like avocado, olive oil, or nuts) to boost uptake.

• If you’re vegetarian or vegan, UV-exposed mushrooms and fortified plant-based products are especially helpful.

Note for Australians: Even in sunny places like Sydney, vitamin D deficiency is common—especially in winter, or for those with autoimmune conditions. Food sources can offer gentle, consistent support alongside supplementation.

10 Tips for Living with Autoimmune Disease Fatigue

Living with autoimmune disease fatigue is tough, but I’ve found ways to manage my energy and improve my day-to-day life. Here are 10 tips that work for me, with some notes on how I put them into practice and why they help. Number 2 and 3 have been so helpful in reducing the extreme fatigue I use to have constantly. 

1. Prioritize Restful Sleep
   This is somethin that we hear is so important  - aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night. I know I feel better when I get these 8 hour nights but they rarely happen for me. I am struggling with sleep apnea, a new CPAP machine, and strange night time sensations. I am doing all the suggested things - I stick to a consistent bedtime routine, dim lights, no screens an hour before bed, and a cozy bedroom setup with soft bedding. At least I am trying. I'll write more about my sleep issues another time. 

2. Pace Myself
   I use the "spoon theory" to budget my energy. I break tasks into small chunks, like doing laundry in stages over a few days. This keeps me from crashing and lets me accomplish what’s most important without feeling overwhelmed. Pacing has been one of the most difficult things to learn but so beneficial. 

3. Incorporate Gentle Movement
   I do short yoga sessions or a 10-minute walk when I’m up for it. I start with just a few stretches on rough days, and it boosts my mood and energy without wiping me out. It’s like a gentle nudge to my system.

4. Optimize Nutrition
   I focus on anti-inflammatory foods—lots of veggies, salmon, and nuts—and avoid sugar and processed junk. Meal prepping simple dishes like quinoa bowls saves energy, and I notice less brain fog when I eat this way.

5. Stay Hydrated
   I se to keep a water bottle with me and sip 8-10 cups a day. Now that I am retired I keep a bottle in my car and have a glass of water every time I walk into the kitchen and when taking tablets twice a day and that results in around 8 glasses a day. Staying hydrated keeps my headaches at bay and helps my body function better, especially when fatigue feels like it’s dragging me down.

6. Manage Stress
   Stress makes my fatigue worse, so I carve out time for myself and this includes mindfulness. I do five minutes of deep breathing or a quick meditation daily. It calms my nerves and helps me feel like I have more control over my energy. I also have created a small comfy seating area just for me on my patio where I can quietly sit and watch the clouds and the birds and read a book. 

7. Use Energy-Saving Tools
   I rely on tools like a lightweight vacuum or pre-chopped veggies to make tasks easier. These save my energy for things I enjoy, like spending time with friends, instead of wasting it on chores.

8. Schedule Rest Breaks
   I plan a quiet time every afternoon. I set my phone alarm in case I fall asleep. These breaks are essential to get through the rest of the my day without feeling like I’m running on empty. They are part of my pacing strategy.

9. Communicate Needs
   I’m honest with my loved ones about my limits. I’ll say, “I need to sit this one out,” or ask for help with heavy tasks. It reduces stress and helps me focus on what I can handle. It's taken a long while to be able to do this, but it helps me and no one else understands me better than me!

10. Work with Healthcare Providers
    I check in with my doctors regularly to tweak my treatment plan. We’ve explored supplements like vitamin D, which helped my energy a bit. Having a supportive medical team keeps me on track and hopeful.

These are my go-to strategies, but everyone’s different. I always check with my doctor before making big changes to make sure they fit my specific conditions.

Measures to identify unmet medical needs of children and adults with autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases

 

Patients with autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases face tough challenges in terms of their physical, mental, and social health, and they have many medical needs that are not being fully addressed. To help these patients, it's important to clearly understand what these unmet needs are. One way to gather this information is through Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs), which are reports from patients about their own health issues. These reports are very useful in understanding what patients truly need.

This article looks at established ways to measure PROs to determine which are best for identifying the unmet needs of patients with autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. Experts from the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare met to discuss these measures and also considered the possibility of using technology to collect PRO data electronically.

The experts suggested 28 potential measures, both specific to certain diseases and general ones. They emphasized the importance of making sure the measures are clearly understood in different languages and noted that the results from adults and children should not be mixed. They also discussed the challenges of moving from paper-based PRO measures to digital ones, mainly because of concerns about accuracy and a lack of technical and financial resources.

For non-disease-specific PRO measures, the experts recommended KINDL® and EQ-5D-Y for children, and SF-36v2® and EQ-5D™ for adults.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what these terms refer to:

1. KINDL®: This is a questionnaire specifically designed to measure the quality of life in children. It looks at various aspects of a child's well-being, like their physical health, emotional state, and social life.

2. EQ-5D-Y: This is a version of the EQ-5D, which is used to assess the general health of children. The "Y" stands for "Youth," so it's tailored for younger patients. It focuses on five areas: mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression.

3. SF-36v2®: This is a survey used to measure health-related quality of life in adults. It covers a wide range of health aspects like physical functioning, pain, mental health, and social well-being. The "v2" indicates it's the second version, with updates for better accuracy and clarity.

4. EQ-5D™: This is a general health measure used for both adults and children. Like the EQ-5D-Y, it looks at five key areas (mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression) but is meant for a broader age group.

These tools help doctors and researchers understand how diseases and treatments affect a person's day-to-day life and well-being.

READ ORIGINAL JOURNAL REPORT: Consideration of useful patient-reported outcome measures to identify unmet medical needs of children and adults with autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases published in Modern Rheumatology April 2025.

Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin) Health Benefits: A Natural Remedy for Inflammation, Infection, and Chronic Disease

Nigella sativa, also known as black cumin or black seed, is a plant from the Ranunculaceae family that has been used since ancient times for its healing properties. It has shown benefits in treating problems related to the stomach, lungs, heart, infections, and inflammation.

Black Cumin seeds and the plant it comes from.

This review focuses on the plant's health benefits, especially in Arab cultures where it’s called “the plant that cures any disease.” These effects come from natural chemicals in the seeds, such as thymoquinone, p-cymene, α-thujene, longifolene, β-pinene, α-pinene, and carvacrol. These substances give the seeds strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by reducing harmful molecules in the body (ROS).

The review also highlights how black seed might work well when combined with other medicines—like antibiotics or cancer drugs—by making them more effective or reducing the needed dose. Research suggests that black seed could be used alone or alongside other treatments.

Although early studies are promising, more in-depth research and clinical trials are needed to fully understand how it works, how best to use it, and its safety. For now, black seed can be used in small amounts in food and medicine, but only for short periods until more is known.

Nigella sativa (black seed) is widely known for its positive effects on health. In traditional medicine, its seeds have been used to treat a variety of conditions, including aches, diarrhea, back pain, rheumatism, high blood pressure, diabetes, migraines, digestive and respiratory issues, and even cancer. It also acts as a natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic.

The most powerful compound in black seed is thymoquinone (TQ), along with other active ingredients like p-cymene, α-thujene, longifolene, β-pinene, α-pinene, and carvacrol. These are used in different forms—essential oils, powders, capsules, and extracts.

Researchers are increasingly interested in black seed because of its wide range of health benefits. Thymoquinone, in particular, helps reduce oxidative stress and harmful molecules (ROS), lowers inflammation, strengthens the immune system, and supports energy production and cell health. It may also help protect against serious conditions like cancer, neurological disorders, and diseases affecting the heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, digestion, and metabolism.

NS is acceptable to be used in food and drug manufacturing but in small amounts and to be administered for brief periods. Therefore, to be eligible for use in therapies, NS needs more detailed investigations to obtain clearer insights into the toxicological profile of NS and verify if it can be safely used in higher quantities and for longer times. To conclude, the findings reviewed in this paper offer an updated framework for future research in the field, encouraging further in-depth interdisciplinary studies that would help advance present NS-based therapeutic strategies to reach clinical settings. From Nigella sativa: A Comprehensive Review of Its Therapeutic Potential, Pharmacological Properties, and Clinical Applications. Published: 14 December 2024 in International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Read the full, in-depth research. 

Manganese benefits for autoimmune disease

Manganese is a mineral that is considered an essential nutrient because the body requires it to function properly.

Manganese doesn’t get a lot of spotlight, but it actually plays some low-key important roles—especially when it comes to autoimmune health. Here’s how it can help: 

It is a strong antioxidant that helps to reduce inflammation in the body. It also aids metabolism, helps regulate blood sugar, helps heal bones and connective tissues, and can help reduce premenstrual cramps. 

Low dietary manganese intake or low levels of manganese in blood or tissue have been associated with Osteoporosis and Diabetes mellitus.

1. Powerful Antioxidant Support

• Manganese is essential for the enzyme MnSOD (manganese superoxide dismutase)—a major antioxidant defender in your mitochondria.

• This helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which is a big driver of autoimmune flares.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

• By supporting antioxidant activity, manganese helps calm chronic inflammation, which is at the core of many autoimmune conditions like RA, lupus, and MS.

3. Supports Joint Health

• Manganese helps build collagen and is involved in the formation of connective tissue and cartilage.

• This can be particularly helpful in autoimmune conditions that affect joints, like rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Aids in Enzyme Function + Nutrient Absorption

• It’s a cofactor for several enzymes involved in:

  • Carb and fat metabolism

  • Wound healing

  • Bone formation

• Helps the body process other important nutrients like vitamin B1, vitamin E, and magnesium—which are all crucial for immune regulation.

5. May Support Brain + Nerve Function

• Manganese is involved in neurotransmitter production and neural protection, which could be relevant for autoimmune conditions affecting the nervous system (like MS or autoimmune encephalitis).

---

⚠️ A Few Notes:

• Too much manganese can be toxic—especially in supplement form. Stick with the recommended daily intake unless advised otherwise by a doctor.

• Food sources are usually safest: pumpkin seeds, oats, leafy greens, such as spinach, whole grains like brown rice and wheat germ, pineapple, nuts such as pecans, peanuts and almonds and tofu. 

• The good news is that we get adequate dietary manganese from eating these foods and rarely need to supplement our diet. If you’re considering a supplement, talk to your doctor first as excessive levels of manganese are toxic and supplements should be approached with care.

TOFU RECIPE. 

Tofu is made from soybeans and is soft and bland and can easily be incorporated in stir-fries as a great source of easy to chew protein. It easily absorbs other flavors so works well with asian sauces such as soya, oyster, or chili sauce. but if you are like me and can no longer tolerate these spicy sauces due to burning mouth syndrome you may like the following idea. 

Use firm or extra firm tofu and drain excess water off the tofu.

Slice the tofu into 1-inch thick pieces and place in a dish to use in the oven.

Mix all the sauce ingredients together and pour over tofu and bake for 20 minutes: 

• Peanut butter
• Golden syrup or coconut sugar or other sugar
• Sesame oil
• Salt or soya sauce
• a splash of lime juice

Enjoy with rice and vegetables.

I track my food, exercise and other health metrics with cronometer. It encourages me to focus on nutrition as a whole rather than counting calories and even tracks foods like miso and soy butter.

You may also like these articles:

• Antioxidant Therapies: A New Boost in Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
• Turmeric's benefits
• Vitamin D and marine omega 3 and autoimmune disease Research 
• Pomegranate extract may reduce arthritis symptoms

The benefits of crafting for people with autoimmune conditions

There are many reasons why crafting is beneficial for people with autoimmune disease and in fact all chronic illnesses. Here I uncover some of the research which confirms what many crafters feel when they do their favorite pastime whether it is drawing, pottery, baking, scrapbooking, quilting, rock painting or whatever craft takes their fancy. 

Crafting for many people is an enjoyable or relaxing experience and it may be associated with a freedom of expression and a sense of achievement.

Crafting is good for your mental health. Art therapists have known this for years. Their whole field is based upon the benefits of any form of art being beneficial in so many ways. A wide variety of studies have been done now to provide an understanding of these benefits. Some of the results have proven that:

It can be a distraction from pain.

It can decrease anxiety, stress, and mood disturbances which are often felt by people with chronic conditions.

It can improve well-being and quality of life.

It can activate the reward pathways in the brain providing a sense of satisfaction.

RESEARCH INTO THE BENEFITS OF CRAFTING

A US university study even measured 39 participants' cortisol levels to monitor their stress from a session of creative crafting like collage and found a significant lowering of cortisol levels which means they were less stressed.

One studyTrusted Source found that people who engaged in arts and crafts, such as music, painting, drawing, textile crafts, and creative writing experienced lower levels of mental distress. They also experienced higher levels of mental functioning and life satisfaction.

The findings of this study illustrate how creative craft hobbies such as quilting can be a meaningful vehicle for enhancing wellbeing. This study sets the foundation for further research into creativity, creative hobbies, and hobbies in general. A range of cognitive, emotional, and social benefits were uncovered that participants attributed to quilting that could be seen by all crafts.

A 2018 study shows that crafting is calming, promotes successful aging, and has long-term social and cultural benefits. Researchers found four factors common in their older crafting community: (1) identity, (2) spirituality, (3) calming and (4) mastery/recognition from others led to less decline in everyday functioning and independence among older adults.

A study into the simple act of doodling proved that it aided concentration, improved visuomotor learning, and decreased boredom. Ways of maintaining attention to task are also important in the context of depressive ruminations and worry.

Many people, with autoimmune conditions, have found that they now have reduced skills such as fine motor hand skills or eye problems and they may need to change or modify their hobbies. I personally use to do fine and detailed etching in metal but have changed to coloring due to decreased hand strength. I still enjoy having an activity that I can do that provides me with a sense of creativity and distraction from my symptoms. A friend was telling me she use to do pottery but now due to limited space and the inability to drive to the local kiln to have her pots fired, she has swapped to polymer clay which can do at home. 

MAKING CRAFTING EASIER

Pastel or charcoal drawing using larger crayons may be easier when you have lost dexterity in your hands. 

Collage creations with torn paper and glue sticks rather than using scissors.

Create art, as simple as dots, on pre-cut cards and envelope sets. The same can be done on blank postcards. 

A table easel may make painting or drawing more accessible but it is a matter of personal preference.

Large crayons and triangular colored pencils designed for easy grip by children may help some people with dexterity or strength issues.

Some people like painting on material rather than paper. 

QUESTIONS ABOUT CRAFTING FOR YOU

Are you someone who loves crafting and feel that they gain great benefits in having a hobby or passion that you enjoy? It would be wonderful if you could tell us what hobby you enjoy and a bit about it in the comments. Thank you.

Are you someone that has always been a crafter and has had to modify the way they craft or the type of crafts they do? We would love to hear from you too. 

SOURCES MENTIONED:

• Adams-Price CE, et al. (2018). Crafts as serious hobbies: Impact and benefits in later life.
  ingentaconnect.com/content/intellect/crre/2018/00000009/00000001/art00006
• Andrade J. (2009). What does doodling do?
• onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/acp.1561
• Burt EL, et al. (2012). The relationship between quilting and wellbeing.
  academic.oup.com/jpubhealth/article/34/1/54/1550848
• Ferrarese CL. (2018). Women's perceptions of flourishing through quilting as a leisure activity.
  scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/6201/
• Kaimal G, et al. (2015). Crafting, health, and wellbeing: Findings from the survey of public participation in the arts and considerations for art therapists.
  tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17533015.2016.1185447
• Kaimal G, et al. (2016). Reduction of cortisol levels and participants’ responses following art-making.
  tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07421656.2016.1166832

Reflexology can be painful!

We all walk around on our poor feet all day but never really give them much attention. If you sit and massage your own feet with your thumbs you may find lots of sore points. These actually relate to different parts of your body according to Reflexology. It is an alternative therapy using specific hand techniques to apply pressure to the feet and also the hands. It is a type of massage but it can be painful. When I first had reflexology, many years ago, I had many painful spots, especially around the thyroid gland area and the kidneys. I have since been diagnosed with an autoimmune thyroid condition. Some of these areas actually felt like there was glass in my foot!

Reflexology is based on reflex areas that relate to parts of the body, on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work effects a physical improvement to the body.

"Reflexology is gentle manipulation or pressing on certain parts of the foot to produce an effect elsewhere in the body." Massage, reflexology and other manual methods for managing pain in labour. Cochrane Collaboration. 

Reflexology is meant to stimulate energy and release blockages in specific areas in the body. All the organs, glands and parts of the body have representing reflexes on the feet. Reflexologists say that health problems in the body can usually be detected in the corresponding area of the foot. They believe that by massaging the reflexes, using specific techniques, there will be a direct effect on the corresponding organ. 

There is no consensus among reflexologists on how reflexology is supposed to work; a unifying theme is the idea that areas on the foot correspond to areas of the body, and that by manipulating these one can improve health through one's qi. Norman, Laura; Thomas Cowan (1989). The Reflexology Handbook, A Complete Guide. 

It can also be used to help with specific problems such as insomnia. (See the image below for the reflex points to massage for sleep.)

Reflexology does NOT diagnose illness or specific conditions but can be used as an non invasive extra therapy. It often used to aid a variety of conditions including headaches, PMS, asthma and anxiety. 

To find a qualified reflexologist, contact the Reflexology Association or Complementary Medicine Association. Reflexologists learn and study their craft and will usually have a certificate.