Why Woodworking (and Fixing Things) Is More Than Good for You

The Real Reasons I Keep Coming Back to the Workbench — and Why You Should Too

How a Broken Chair in the Navy Changed My Life

Back when I was serving in the Navy, I was just a young guy trying to figure out who I was and what I was meant to do. Long stretches at sea, tight quarters, and constant noise can wear a man down.

One day on shore duty, I came across a busted-up wooden chair while doing repair work in some old barracks. Most guys would’ve tossed it, but something about it called to me. I dragged it outside and, using nothing but basic hand tools, I brought it back to life.

The crew laughed at first. But after seeing the finished chair — solid, sturdy, usable — they started bringing me more things to fix. That little chair gave me more than something to do. It gave me peace. Purpose. And that’s when I knew: working with my hands was more than just practical. It was powerful.

From the Navy to the Classroom

After leaving the Navy, I used my GI Bill to study — but I couldn’t shake the feeling I got from that chair. So I became a woodshop teacher. For decades, I taught kids how to measure, cut, sand, and believe in themselves. Woodworking gave them confidence — just like it gave me.

🧠 Mental Health: Focus, Peace, and Purpose

When you’re sanding or sawing, everything else fades away. It’s just you, the wood, and the next step. Woodworking becomes a kind of moving meditation — your brain stops racing, your stress calms down, and you get present.

• It brings calm and clarity during chaotic times.
• It builds confidence by letting you finish real, tangible projects.
• It gives your brain a break — something we all need more of.

💪 Physical Health: Strength, Dexterity, and Stamina

Don’t let anyone tell you woodworking isn’t a workout. It keeps your body moving and your muscles sharp.

• Grip strength improves from using hand tools.
• Balance and flexibility stay strong from working in different positions.
• Your core and legs get engaged from standing and lifting.
• Fine motor skills sharpen — critical as we age.

It’s functional fitness — the kind your grandfather got from doing real work.

❤️ Emotional Benefits: Pride, Patience, and Peace of Mind

In a throwaway world, being able to fix or build something gives you power and peace. Every time you repair instead of replace, you prove you’re capable.

• You build confidence by solving real problems.
• You learn patience — because woodworking teaches you to slow down.
• You create peace of mind by knowing you can fix what breaks.

And let’s face it — we all need more patience in our lives, especially these days.

🧰 The Deeper Stuff: Legacy, Connection, and Doing What Matters

Woodworking connects me to my roots — to my dad, my granddad, and everyone who ever fixed something instead of throwing it away. Every time I show my grandkids how to sand or screw something in, I’m passing down more than a skill — I’m passing down a mindset.

• It teaches resilience — the ability to keep going when things don’t go right.
• It strengthens family bonds through shared projects.
• It connects you to a community of makers who are eager to share what they know.

🧠 Health Recap (Because the Science Backs It Up)

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Sharpens cognitive function and memory
• Boosts mood through creative achievement
• Improves physical coordination and strength
• Promotes better sleep by calming the mind

My Final Word

Working with your hands isn’t just practical — it’s essential. It teaches you that you’re still capable. That you can take something rough and turn it into something useful. That you can create instead of consume.

In a world that moves too fast and throws too much away, woodworking reminds us to slow down. To focus. To build something real.

If you’re feeling stuck or stressed — get to the garage, the shed, or the corner of your kitchen table. Grab a board. Start something. You’ll come out better than you went in.

P.S. Want Help Getting Started?

Join my crew and grab your free copy of The Weekend Woodworker’s Bible — packed with project plans, shop-tested advice, and all the tips I wish I had when I got started.