Have heard about the ‘new’ yoga? Honestly, that’s what it’s called, but really, it’s the act of knitting and crocheting!Why do you ask and how is knitting like ‘the down-ward facing dog’ or the ‘cobra pose’?Ok, it may not have the body twisting positions of formal yoga (though some knitters may argue this point!), but in terms of its mindfulness, it’s hard to beat.
Knitting requires attention to detail, creating an experience that encourages mindfulness. This allows knitters to focus on the present moment, which helps reduce anxiety, worry, and overthinking. The repetitive, rhythmic motions is meditative, helping to calm the mind.
The act of creating something with one's hands is therapeutic, particularly for people dealing with stress, anxiety, or even trauma. This process offers a sense of purpose and accomplishment, which is extremely beneficial for mental health.
If you’re looking to keep your brain young, knitting engages both the left and right hemispheres of the brain. The left brain is involved in counting stitches and following patterns, while the right brain is engaged in the creativity and artistry of choosing colors and designs. This helps improve cognitive function and mental sharpness. Regular knitting practice can improve memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills as knitters follow patterns, count stitches, and visualize how their work will look when completed.
Completing a knitting project, no matter how small, brings a sense of accomplishment! In a time where we stare into the void of our phones, the tangible result of creating something beautiful from scratch fosters feelings of pride and self-worth, especially when you create for a loved one. Making a gift for a loved one or contributing to a charitable creates feelings of connection, kindness, and fulfillment. The process of giving brings emotional rewards and strengthens social bonds.
Now you may think that I’m trying to justify our knitting time, but even doctors admit that it can help with fine motor skills, help with arthritis and promote lowering blood pressure.
To top it all off, knitting has a social aspect—many people join knitting circles or online groups where they can share their work, get advice, and bond over shared experiences. This sense of community boosts feelings of belonging and love.
Knitting and crochet are more than just a hobbies, as you can see, it's a therapeutic activity that promotes mindfulness, relaxation, and emotional well-being, just to start!Whether you're knitting alone or with others, the act of creating with your hands has a profound positive effect on both the brain and the body, making it a wonderful practice for overall health and wellness….and it’s much easier than the ‘half wheel position’!
