In the World of Crochet

Did you know that crocheting, knitting or crafting can reduce stress, delay memory loss, minimize pain and impart an overall sense of well-being? As crocheters, we may have personally experienced some of these benefits, but numerous studies have recently confirmed that spending time crocheting is good for our health! Studies have found some of the benefits of crocheting include: • Feeling a sense of accomplishment • Reducing stress and anxiety • Helping with depression • Improving mood • Building a sense of confidence • Reducing risk of memory loss • Slowing cognitive decline • Improving motor skills • Helping with recovery from an illness Crocheting and crafting have found their way into schools, adding a hands-on, multisensory approach to learning everything from mathematics to language and history. Volunteers are taking their crafting skills and teaching in prisons, hospitals, nursing homes, rehab clinics and community centers. They willingly share their knowledge, knowing that learning to crochet is about more than just learning a new skill to keep busy. These dedicated volunteers know that crafting brings benefits to each individual beyond the short time they can spend with each person. Perhaps because of the research and focus on more holistic health programs, recent awareness has made way for a more mindful approach to crochet, with several new publications exploring the meditative qualities of crochet. Projects in these publications are meant to bring the crocheter’s attention to the movement of the stitch, the visual impact of the colors, or the feel of the yarn as it glides through their fingers— all focusing on a more mindful approach to crocheting. It invites the crocheter to slow down and be aware of the process as they create something of beauty with their hands. Bringing a mindful approach to your crochet time can certainly enhance the experience. It allows the process of creating to become just as important as the finished project. You may decide to keep a simple project always at the ready for those moments when working on some soothing crochet is just what is needed. Here are a few simple steps to help you incorporate this new approach into your crochet time: • Choose a simple pattern that does not require you

to keep looking at the instructions. • Find a quiet spot and get comfortable. • Hold your crochet in your lap, set your intention to slow down and notice your stitching. • As you stitch, bring your attention to the process of making each stitch. • Notice the colors, feel the texture of the yarn, and remember to breathe slowly. Sometimes it is helpful to find the rhythm in your crochet and count silently to yourself, especially if you are trying to de-stress and not worry about a problem. The rhythm may be the number of stitches in a repeat or awareness of the movement your hand makes to produce each stitch. When you find your mind wandering, gently return to the rhythm. When you are finished, place your crochet back in your lap and take a few slow deep breaths before you return to your daily routine. Whether you intentionally incorporate a mindfulness practice into your crochet time or just gain a new awareness that crochet can be a soothing activity, I hope you’ll approach your crochet time with a new appreciation for our humble craft.