What a great question!! As most others have said, it's a creative outlet for me. As an RN, my mind is in the 'left brain' mode at work so this exercises my right brain. I also love the color and texture of fabric; love the history of quilting. In recent years, I found that I really like figuring out a pattern which is also 'left brain' but that's okay. I can always benefit from the mental exercise. I like the comradery of fellow quilters and enjoy learning from them.
Jane