Feeling Disconnected? – Why Using Your Hands Could Be the Cure
Written by Michael Yaker, Carpenter and Woodworker
Better known as Chief Bad Axe, The Speaking Tree, The Natural Alternative to Artificial Intelligence, Mike Yaker is a timber frame carpenter, artist, writer, poet, storyteller, demonstrator, teacher, and speaker on the benefits that working with our hands has on our well-being.
As we enter the age of AI, it is more important than ever to answer the question: What does it mean to be human in a world where technology is evolving faster than our ability to perceive the consequences? We can be guided in answering this question by looking at some of the most striking outcomes that technology has brought us in the new millennium. While technology has made communication and knowledge more accessible, wrapped in convenience, the shadow aspects of this convenience tell a different story. In the short time of technological expansion of our communication systems, the human condition has many cautionary tales.
Technology has degraded our mental health and well-being. For the generations coming of age during this explosion of unchecked technological growth, the consequences have been dire.
Alarming increases in rates of suicide, anxiety, and depression plague the youth of today. Many are stuck in their heads and uncomfortable in their own bodies. Having a plan in place to address the effects technology has on our humanness is more important than ever.
A carpenter by trade, working with my hands has always been central in my life. As a witness to humanity’s struggle to adapt to the rapid technological advances, I can see clearly the positive benefits working with our hands has on our mental health and well-being.
The human brain has evolved in unison with the work of our hands. The work of our hands is what separates and elevates humans from all other forms of life on our planet. The work of our hands allows the brain to relax, free from worry. Think about that and let it sink in!
Who couldn’t use more "relax free from worry" time in their lives? It allows the mind to be free, to roam, to imagine, to daydream, to experience the present moment, a state of mindfulness, the benefits of which are widely acknowledged to improve immunity, heart rate, blood pressure, clarity of thought, and perception.
Working with our hands is a simple, direct, and accessible path to more joy and satisfaction in our lives. The work of our hands is a great remedy for those stuck in their heads and uncomfortable in their own bodies. Working with our hands is a great way to slow down and embrace the miraculous nature of the human experience.
There are many ways to engage in the work of our hands. Many crafts and much making engage the work of our hands. Sewing, knitting, basket making, soap making, woodworking, jewelry, pottery/clay, weaving, and cooking are but a small sample of activities that engage the work of our hands. Our ancestors used these crafts and others to create the tools and objects for daily life.
Watch the video on YouTube: The Power of Craft: Restoring Balance and Well-being Through the Work of Our Hands
In a world distracted by technology, I encourage everyone to engage their imagination and creativity, to explore the many options available, to reconnect, and to engage in work that is deeply embedded in our DNA. The power to restore balance and well-being in our lives is in our hands.
Read more from Michael Yaker
Michael Yaker, Carpenter and Woodworker
Better Known as Chief Bad Axe, The Speaking Tree – The Natural Alternative to Artificial Intelligence, Mike Yaker is a lifelong carpenter and woodworker, artist, writer, poet, storyteller, demonstrator, teacher, and speaker on the benefits that working with our hands has on our well-being.
Mike's passion is bringing simple, direct, and accessible woodworking practices to people of all ages. His brand, Chop Wood Make Stuff Be Happy Plant Craft Spirit Medicine, is designed to bring healing and well-being to both self and planet by reconnecting people to a right relationship with nature.
