I started knitting in my thirties with other mothers my age, as our young children played. Life was good. Knitting was social and fun: a chance to get together. The importance of this simple get together to knit had far reaching purposes.
None of us knew how our lives would take a turn and knitting would become much more fun! For me, it became survival, a way to center myself during a time of great loss. Knitting can have many purposes at different times of our life.
My life took a tragic turn, when my husband suddenly died leaving me alone with our three children to raise. I was completely lost. My thoughts were scattered, my heart devastated, and I was fearful of my future. I instinctively reached for my large bamboo needles, some natural merino wool yarn, and began knitting hat after hat.
My hands were active instead of my mind. I felt I was doing something when I couldn’t focus on “what I should do next”. Knitting was comforting, peaceful, simple, and almost magical. My thoughts were in the moment; I was still.
The group began as a “fun” time to get together and learn a new craft with other mothers. Then, after this tragic event, I took the newly learned craft of knitting to help calm my mind to help me maintain a degree of sanity. It was a way to become peaceful, reflective, still, and even a means to get closer to God. “Be still and know I am God”.
Many knitters talk about the soothing effect knitting has on their life. Psychologists and biofeedback specialists discuss the calming effects of knitting and how it can be a useful meditative/ spiritual tool. Knitting has been cited as improving concentration, lowering blood pressure and heart rate, and improving one’s immune function. Knitting engages your whole brain. The right, creative side enjoys experimenting with colors, the all important tactile experience of the bamboo needles and the incredible variety of yarns. The left, analytical side keeps busy by following the myriad of pattern instructions.
As our lives weave on their own windy roads, keep your bag handy with smooth bamboo needles and a beautiful skein of yarn for when you just need some centering peace. Everyone could use a simple hand knit scarf or hat!
Get started with this beautiful book: The Knitting Way: A Guide to Spiritual Self Discovery
Also, feel the difference with Bamboo Knitting Needles
August 3, 2010 at 2:48 am
My grandma use to knit and crochet to calm herself. Others may have other hobbies which engage the mind to provide a peaceful state of being. For me it is repairing antique radio. For my wife it is painting. Even though I do not paint, I love to watch Bob Ross paint. There is something magical in his soul. And when he ends each show with “God Bless”, it just ties it altogether for me.
August 4, 2010 at 2:24 pm
Beautiful article. My mother used to crochet a lot, and now my little sister is starting to get into it as well as sewing. I see it as a constructive way to spend your time and release stress. Much better than passively absorbing television or playing video games.
August 5, 2010 at 8:08 pm
This is a beautifully written article. A reminder that there are healthful, spiritual and creative ways to center and calm ourselves when dealing with stress or for the fun and fellowship of sharing an artform with friends.
August 25, 2010 at 2:34 pm
I just picked up my knitting needles after nearly twenty years of not knitting and I have found it to be so peaceful and soothing. It relaxes me after a long days work…I have fallen in love with it all over again.
May 6, 2011 at 9:15 am
I love knitting for all the reasons you described. It is like saying the rosary; vey meditative and spiritual. Thank you for sharing yor story.
December 10, 2011 at 6:31 pm
I began crocheting after my baby girl died. I knew I needed to keep my hands busy… so I got a book and learned how to crochet. I made a lot of little NICU blankets for babies too small for “regular” sized blankets. Through the crocheting and the giving, my soul began to heal…
December 10, 2011 at 7:57 pm
Bless you!
May 23, 2013 at 1:58 pm
Knitting is a craft in which two needles along with thread or yarn are used to create fabric pieces or garments by creating loops in the yarn. Knitting can be used to create many types of fabric, from framed knitting artwork to sweaters, afghan quilts, throws, blankets, mittens, or even bedroom slippers.”‘*^
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