knitting

Just like stroking pets when you’re anxious, knitting is a proven and productive method of relieving stress. Granted, you must take the time and effort to learn how to do it in the first place, but once you have mastered the basics, there is no limit to what you can do.

It is interesting that once people begin knitting and find their own system, the act of knitting is like meditation. The steady rhythm you get into once you get used to holding the needles helps to engage your brain and you begin to almost breathe in time to your stitches. You may even be aware of your hands knitting but you don’t have to think about what you’re doing. Your thoughts can simply just evaporate and you can go into a blissful trance-like state. For those who lead particularly stressful lives, even just twenty minutes a day of ‘zoning out’ or whatever you prefer to call it could aid sleep or allow a mind stressed to breaking point to relax and regroup.

Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Sarah Jessica Parker, Julia Roberts and Madonna have made no secret of their love of knitting.

The ancient craft was dubbed ‘the new yoga’ and it’s not only women following the lead of these celebrities, men find knitting relaxing too. In fact, my MALE best friend enjoys knitting scarves and my father taught his mother to crochet! The industrious act of knitting whilst watching television can ease troubled and stressed minds and it is hugely rewarding when you can show off the fruit of your labours to others.

Having something to show for your efforts is a massive confidence boost; you can save money by knitting your own clothes or gifts for friends and family. When you have an item of clothing that is exclusive to you and others complement you on your talents, your relaxing hobby has become a talent that gives you a new lease on life.

Seize this opportunity with both hands!

knitting