LIVING MY BEST LIFE

Knitting: The Unsung Hero of Mental Health (usually)

Knitting and spinning used to be an escape for me. When my daughter was little, I would knit or spin at night after she went to bed. I also did it in the morning before she woke up. It was blissful. It was my quiet time, my peace. I would share my creations on Facebook and Ravelry. As my skill level increased, I started doing test-knitting for other designers. My skill level soared. When I opened the doors to my new store in 2015, it was no longer my peace. It had become my job.

Since closing the store in February, I have struggled to regain that peace, that joy of creation. I am still struggling. I picked up one of my UFOs (unfinished object) last night with the intention of enjoying that peace. I got my earbuds in. I put on my latest “read”, Little Women (a book my daughter is reading for home school). I sat there with the project in my lap, waiting for me to embrace it. I didn’t. Maybe tonight I will try again. This has become a frequent ritual in the last 6 months. My mojo has vanished.

That is the problem when your hobby becomes your job. What was once joyful, takes on a life of it’s own. Each stitch of yarn or draft of fiber is no longer for pleasure. It is now created with the intention of making money. During the nearly 10 years the store was open to the public, I never knit or spun anything for fun. I always created pieces to showcase my yarn or as a model for the store. The weight of it truly became a burden. I know this would be a shock to my customers who DO indeed knit or spin for pleasure. I am hoping I can regain that solace. I am thinking once my fall planting is completed. When the hay is baled, and the weather becomes truly chilly, I will regain my sense of wonder. I will find the joy of creating something with string and sticks again. Of watching a pile of fiber become a usable object. The wonderment that only comes from those of us that create. It is a childlike wonder. I want to be a child again.

In speaking with one of my friends, her journey has been different. Not being a “professional” fiber artist, she still takes solace in her crafting. As I engage in other pursuits away from the store, perhaps I will rekindle my love of fiber arts. I want to once again create items that spark joy! For now, I will continue to retreat to my sewing room where being surround by fabric makes me happy.

The Science of Knitting and Mental Health

It has long been known in fiber circles that knitting (or crocheting) is more than just a relaxing hobby—it’s backed by science! Studies show that activities like knitting engage both hemispheres of the brain. That means you’re giving your mind a workout in the best possible way. This kind of activity promotes relaxation and even reduces cortisol, the pesky stress hormone that leaves us feeling frazzled.

Check out these articles:

• NY Times 2016
• UCLA 2017
• US News 2024

And a quick google search can bring hundreds more.

Knitting as Mindfulness

In our fast-paced world, mindfulness can feel like a buzzword. Knitting (or crocheting) is one of the easiest ways to practice it. You don’t have to sit still or clear your mind completely. Instead, with every loop and pattern, you’re gently bringing your attention to the present moment. The soft rhythm of yarn slipping through your fingers has a soothing quality. This allows you to escape the clutter of daily life, even if just for a few moments.

Knitting Community and Connection

Another aspect of knitting that’s often overlooked is the sense of community it fosters. Joining a local knitting group or simply following knitters online. There’s something comforting about connecting with others who share your passion. In a world where we can sometimes feel disconnected, knitting reminds us that we’re all linked. Through yarn, stories, and shared experiences.

I’ve personally found joy in sharing my projects with others and seeing what they’ve created. There’s an unspoken bond in the knitting community—one that’s supportive, encouraging, and, most importantly, healing. I hope to get back there and soon!

Start Small, Start Simple

If you’ve never picked up a pair of knitting needles or crochet hook, don’t be intimidated! You don’t need to dive into intricate patterns or complex techniques. Start with something simple—a scarf or a basic blanket. The beauty of knitting is that it’s all about the journey. Even if you drop a stitch or have to start over, it’s okay. It’s part of the process, and that in itself is a metaphor for life, isn’t it? There are tons of beginner videos on YouTube. Or even better, check out local groups in your area. Check at your local library or community center.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need a break. A break from the constant noise of life, give knitting (or crocheting) a try. You might be surprised at just how much those simple stitches can do for your mental well-being. I know that I thoroughly enjoyed the process prior to becoming a “professional”. Each row I knit was closer to the goal of a new accessory or garment. Each row an accomplishment of creativity.

So if you haven’t tried to knit or crochet, do it! Trust me, your mind (and maybe even your wardrobe) will thank you.

If you do knit or crochet, how has it helped you?

I will try again tonight with that UFO and share my progress with you tomorrow.

Wish me luck!