Have you always wanted to learn to knit, but felt overwhelmed? We know how you feel, but did you know that there are quite a few health benefits that accompany learning and practicing the art of knitting?
“I have officially gone from a red-haired ingénue wearing designer clothes, riding in limousines and letting people walk all over me to a gray-haired granny on a recliner, contentedly knitting while wearing socks, and putting up with zero BS.”
- Melissa, Back to the Prairie
1. Knitting reduces stress.
Knitters find they can escape into the sanctuary of a quiet mind while focusing on the mindful repetition of knitting.This benefit of reducing stress and anxiety is number one for a reason! The relaxing act of knitting has been proven in many studies to help calm the mind and ease symptoms of stress, anxiety, and even depression. Research has found that knitting helps calm the mind because, while the act of knitting is peaceful and repetitive, it also requires concentration that keeps the mind engaged. Another interesting aspect of knitting that helps with stress and anxiety is that it keeps the hands busy, while the texture and colors of yarn help to improve the mood.
2. Knitting can help improve the memory and sharpen focus skills.
Did you know it has been scientifically proven that the act of knitting requires the brain to use its memory actively, which stimulates neurons and keeps them healthy? Knitting also requires a lot of counting and occasional multiplying and measuring.
3. Knitting encourages community!
Knitting is once again, a very social activity which is good for the mind AND the soul. Knitting in a social setting, even if you are in an online group, promotes a sense of connection. Having knitting as a common interest makes it easier to expand social circles, and allows people to share their creations with each other.
4. Knitting can boost self-confidence.
As we mentioned before, getting started with knitting may seem a bit overwhelming, but you know what? It's worth it, and it really isn't as complicated as it may seem. Once you get the basics down, a whole new world opens up and you can begin to hone you skills and get creative. Mastering knitting techniques, following patterns for new creations, and finishing projects feels good, and it is something you should be proud of!
5. Knitting is a good way to give back to your community.
One of the most rewarding aspects of knitting is knitting for other people, (or animals!). Being able to gift a knitted item to someone you love or someone in need brings a tremendous sense of well-being and purpose. Blankets, scarves, and mittens are always in demand when the weather gets cold, and it feels good to give!
We'd love to help you get started on your healing and happy knitting journey with a list of our favorite (women-owned) knitting teachers!
Wool and the Gang
Their mission is to inspire the next generation of makers through reinvention of the craft experience!
ALL FOR ONE AND ONE FOR WOOL – they make sure they create crafty spaces where everyone feels welcome. That means making sure their patterns fit every size and shape, their customers see themselves reflected in their photography and their products are accessible for a range of abilities.
Click here to learn more about Wool and the Gang
We Are Knitters
They’re always looking for new knitters – and believe an idea means nothing if it is not completed.
CHANGING THE WORLD ONE STITCH AT A TIME.
Their kits include everything you need to create your project: the fibers, tools, and step by step instructions guiding you through all the processes.
Choose your technique and kit, customize your colors and start creating!
Purl Soho
A Yarn sanctuary for a nation of knitters –
The heart of their business is and always has been a community of crafters.
Inspired by traditional fiber arts, modern design, and nature’s creations, the real beat that keeps them going is their customers. That feeling of fulfillment that comes from making with your own two hands? They want that for you! From color advice to fiber recommendations, from video tutorials to one-on-one troubleshooting, they’re here for you every step of the way.
Click here to learn more about Purl Soho!
6 comments
Found your website through Brenda And The Serial Starter(Laura) episode #107 Flosstube Channel. This weekend I enjoyed LHOTP re-runs and as I was stitching I enjoyed the episode with Nellie stitching on a sampler. I’ve also ordered a LHOTP Project Bag made with fabric including a covered wagon! So cute 😍 Bless you 💖 for heading up this lovely endeavor to support and encourage us gracefully aging ladies.
Hi Melissa! Just joined your community and I am a knitter and have been largely due to my stepmom Carol who passed in 2014 a year after my Dad did in February of 2013. I miss her to this day. She taught me almost 20 years ago and so appreciate the gift of creation she gave me. Even long distance I would call her if I got “stuck” she was a wonderful person and she was my Big sis! Thanks to her, I have made many gifts and shared my love for the craft to others. Even now I am trying to teach myself how to crochet! Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.
Hi Melissa! Just joined your community and I am a knitter and have been largely due to my stepmom Carol who passed in 2014 a year after my Dad did in February of 2013. I miss her to this day. She taught me almost 20 years ago and so appreciate the gift of creation she gave me. Even long distance I would call her if I got “stuck” she was a wonderful person and she was my Big sis!
I crochet and quilt. Often when I begin a project, I have no one in mind to gift it to however I pray for whomever will receive it. Somewhere in the timeline of finishing the project someone comes to mind that I will give the project to and then I pray for them specifically. These projects are good for me – mentally and hopefully benefit the receiver in more ways than one.
I haven’t learned how to knit yet, however I do crochet. I love to crochet and now that I’m older I am getting braver by making new and more difficult patterns. My next goal is to start designing my own items. I live with my daughter, son in law and grandkids on a farm in South Carolina and we love it.