Welcome new knitters and old friends

Hello,

Just thought I’d write a quick note to say a big welcome to my new Knitting friends.

I’m so glad you’ve decided to give knitting a try during this time of isolation.

Knitting is such a great skill.

Firstly it allows you to use your time constructively - you can create something lovely!

Secondly you can take your mind off things that might be worrying you and focus on learning those knitting stitches.

I’m guessing you’ve all had a look at the Video Tutorials. If not - go here!

I also wanted to let you know that due to popularity, I’m currently out of stock of the Chunky Knit Beanie and Cowl kits. If you did have one of those kits and would like some extra wool for a second (or third) project, just email me and I’ll see what I can do. I have very, limited yarn stock available.

However I am working at getting these kits back in stock, so fingers crossed!

If any of my knitters have any questions at all, please feel free to email me or follow me on FaceBook or Instagram @whatjaneknits and send me a message.

I hope that you are all staying healthy and getting some exercise and eating well.

Enjoy your new knitting projects and I’ll try and get some new goodies online soon.

Happy knitting

Jane xx

Is knitting meditative?

I’m often asked about the meditation benefits of knitting, and I’m afraid I don’t usually give the answer most people expect.

As someone who both knits and attends Yoga meditation, I don’t really see much similarity in the practices. Having said that – there are certainly benefits to knitting that will change your thought processes and level of mindfulness.

During our daily activities we often operate on an automatic level. We drive the same routes, shop in the same stores, read our social media updates and watch TV. Even doing the same daily exercises.

I think the perception of knitting as meditative is based on the belief that it is a repetitive automatic and a relaxing activity – a mindless activity.

Knitting in fact is quite a mindful activity because we are activating different brain processes.

Following a pattern, remembering stitches, using hand-eye co-ordination, tactile sensitivity to feel tension of knitting stitches – these are all connections that you may not find activated in your regular activities.

If you are new to knitting it is great opportunity to challenge yourself. Learning a new skill is the best way to be mindful.

As a beginner knitter you will definitely be in the moment as you focus on holding the yarn and making sure your stitches don’t fall off the needle. You may need to remember to breath, and also remember to relax your arms and shoulders.

Of course, as you practice more and become more experienced your will need less focus on your knitting stitches may even be able to look away and knit at the same time. But don’t expect this straightaway.  Even experienced knitters who are knitting a complex pattern will be very mindful.

Remember, all good things take time, and that includes your handknitted jumper that you started last winter!