Mindful Body Mindful Soul

When I was taught to knit as a young girl, I never imagined the skill would benefit my well-being as an adult. Through the years, life has taken many turns: Education, career, marriage and children. Along the way, as true as it is for many, I experienced phases of elevated stress, disappointment and loss. There were days when sadness and frustration were overwhelming and I felt it difficult to cope. During these dark chapters, I sought refuge in knitting and crochet.

While juggling a hectic work schedule, a bustling household and two little children, it was not always easy to find time for myself. In fact, it was virtually impossible. I was sometimes able to start a knitting or crochet project, but rarely ever able to complete one. As much as I wanted and needed to sit and knit for a bit, I could not find the time nor the energy to do so.  Within the past five years; however, work life has altered dramatically, the household is stable and the children are now teenagers. All aspects of our family dynamic have changed and the struggle to manage work-life balance is finally taking a turn for the better.

Casting on stitches redirects my mind and body. It forces my brain to focus on a task while my hands work in fluid, methodical motions. For me, knitting and crochet have a calming affect. It is both mentally and physically therapeutic. I feel like while controlling tension to obtain proper stitch gauge, I am inadvertently releasing built-up stress and tension from my body. I am able to find that internal and external rhythm that helps me to relax and unwind. The act of knitting and crochet is meditative, engages the senses and produces feelings of serenity.

We are fortunate in this generation of information and technology to have access to a plethora of knitting and crochet materials and video tutorials. It is with these resources that I honed my knitting and crochet skills to an intermediate level. I have not only learned to read and follow complex patterns, I am also able to design and create beautiful articles of clothing, home decor and children' toys. The possibilities seem endless.

I am always eager to start a new project, to immerse myself in stitch count, to hear the clicking of the needles as I wrap the yarn. At the same time, I make it a point to choose quality materials in order to produce my best work. I have tested many needle brands in my time as a knitter, but Knitters Pride is my preferred brand for high quality needles and accessories. I was thrilled when Knitters Pride launched their "Mindful Collection." The entire line focuses on the healing power of knitting and truly emphasizes the health benefits of this ancient art.

Knitting and crochet are a significant part of my every day routine. It is the reason I am intently aware and mindful of the things that matter most in life. For this, I am truly grateful.

By: Tania Staniscia

 

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