Emotions in a tangle? October is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we at Yarnalia want you to unwind with some soothing stitchwork. By recognizing crafting for mental health, we support this cause that raises awareness, promotes support and resources, and encourages an open dialogue about mental health awareness. World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, focuses on increasing global awareness of mental health issues and enhancing mental health care accessibility.
My mental health is the direct reason I took up knitting. In 2017, I was commuting two hours back and forth to work each day. At twenty hours a week, commuting had become a part-time job. While I relished the time to read, write (and sometimes sleep!), I grew restless, and my anxious mind craved something productive and mindful to keep occupied. Little did I know that knitting and mental health would go hand in hand at the time. Crafting got me out of my head and into my hands– quite literally, and I will always be grateful for the craft that is my saving grace.
(The beginnings of a knit beanie with Softy in Ruby Shoes)
Creating Calm: How Yarn Crafts Boost Mental Health
Much research suggests that knitting and other similar repetitive crafts can positively affect mental health. (Good news for those who need some yarn therapy). Here are some key findings:
- Stress Reduction: Studies have shown that repetitive, mindful activities like knitting and crocheting can help reduce stress. Knitting’s rhythmic nature is thought to promote relaxation, similar to meditation. It can slow down the heart rate and lower cortisol levels, which helps mitigate stress.
- Improved Mood: Knitting has improved mood and overall emotional well-being. The act of creating something tangible can foster a great sense of accomplishment. Some studies have also found that knitting can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, possibly due to the combination of focus, relaxation, and the sense of achievement it provides.
- Cognitive Benefits: Fiber arts crafts require concentration and can enhance cognitive function by engaging the brain in problem-solving and planning. It can also improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. For some, these cognitive challenges can be particularly beneficial in maintaining mental sharpness, especially as they age, providing intellectual stimulation.
- Social Connection: Many people knit in social settings, such as knitting groups or clubs. Social interaction is a well-known factor in mental health, and being part of a community can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. These groups often provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. I’ve connected with some of my best friends through knitting! (More on that later!)
- Mindfulness and Meditation: Knitting can serve as a form of mindfulness practice. The repetitive and rhythmic nature of the craft can help focus your mind and promote a meditative state. This mindfulness can be therapeutic, helping to manage anxiety and improve emotional resilience.
Overall, the evidence supports the idea that knitting can be valuable for enhancing mental health and well-being.
(Softy in Ruby Shoes is a definite mood booster!)
Yes, Yarn Therapy is Real!
Have you ever had to explain your growing yarn stash to a non-crafter? It turns out that yarn therapy is well-researched and documented. Yarn therapy uses knitting, crocheting, and other yarn crafts as tools to enhance mental health. Combined with the creative process, these repetitive, rhythmic activities can offer various psychological and emotional benefits. Take a yarn like Softy, for example. Our single-ply, 100% Merino Wool is a great option to work with when you need a boost. Knitting up at two stitches per inch, it works up quickly and is unbelievably soft.
When I’m feeling overwhelmed with writing deadlines or life in general, I like to pick up a project that will feel wonderful as I work it up and quickly generate a finished project. Enter the Twist of Fate Beanie by Cathryn Johnson. Not only is this an engaging knit, but the twists and turns remind me of life’s meandering path and how knitting makes me feel at ease when change arises. The Twist of Fate Beanie is a slouchy hat for the Adventurous Beginner. I’ve made several of these beanies, and knitting this one with Softy made it an exceptional experience (not to mention a gorgeous finished product!) Just working with Softy‘s soothing texture relaxes me. Shifting the fiber from one hand to another and creating a sumptuous, luxe-feeling fabric feels so good.
(Thoughtful crown shaping and work-in-progress shots)
Knitting is a Solitary AND Social Activity
Remember how I mentioned that knitting can encourage social engagement? Cathryn Johnson, the designer of the Twist of Fate Beanie, became one of my best friends, and we met through our passion for crafting.
When I asked Cathryn about her experience designing this pattern, she said, “Something came over me, and I felt such peace writing it.” Cathryn agrees wholeheartedly with knitting for mental health awareness: ” There’s this sense of peace, and your mind is nowhere else but present,” she explains.
(This Twist of Fate Beanie is knitted and photographed by designer Cathryn Johnson of KittysKnittyCreation in Softy in our Fern Green colorway)
Have you crafted something with our yarns that’s calmed your nerves and you’d like to share? Be sure to tag us @yarnalia or #createwithyarnalia. Let our curated color palette ease your worries, and our wide range of supple Yarnalia yarns untangle your anxiety. We can’t wait to see what you create with Yarnalia!
(Completed Twist of Fate Beanie)
