Mindful Moments: getting the knack for knitting

I am a self-diagnosed fidgeter. When first writing this column, I aimed to share some techniques I had learned to stay mindful, as someone who has always struggled to shut off and relax. However, it would be naïve of me to assume I have figured out the perfect mindfulness techniques, as I am forever learning and changing. So, last week I had the itch to try something new: knitting. As well as struggling to relax, I am also quite clumsy, so this was a particularly interesting challenge. I went over to Amazon, ordered my baby pink yarn and knitting needles, put on a YouTube tutorial, and challenged myself to knit a row. At first, I struggled and even had to start over a few times. 30 minutes later, however, I had knitted my first two rows. The sense of pride and accomplishment I felt at that moment was overwhelming.

As well as combatting anxiety, knitting can increase the production of serotonin, the body’s natural antidepressant

Knitting is something I always knew about, and wanted to try, but never made the effort to learn. Yet, when I discovered that knitting had strong links with mindfulness, it was a hobby I was eager to try out. In fact, James McIntosh, when giving a Ted Talk at Kings College London, went as far as describing it as ‘knititation’. So, what are these benefits that make knitting something that should be on your 2025 bucket list?

According to Marshfield Clinic, knitting can lower the heart rate and reduce cortisol, a stress hormone. This leads to a reduction in stress and anxiety, making knitting an ideal activity to remain mindful. It is true, I did feel extremely calm after the initial hurdle of learning how to do the intricate movements. As well as combatting anxiety, knitting can increase the production of serotonin, the body’s natural antidepressant.

The positives do not stop there. Knitting can also produce a sense of accomplishment, which can be an instant mood booster. My hope is to eventually knit a scarf with my baby pink yarn, which I am certain will leave me feeling extremely content. However, even just knitting a few rows can produce the same level of pride and accomplishment. Also, there are many online communities now available for fellow knitters to come together, leading to you being able to meet like-minded people. A specific community in mind would be ‘Let’s knit together’, an online club that brands itself as ‘The UK’s Friendliest Knitting Club’.

Making time to try new hobbies and have mindful moments is extremely important, and we should always pencil in time to work on our hobbies

With the hustle and bustle of university, an activity such as knitting can be seen as wasteful or unnecessary. However, I feel that this activity is perfect for university students, despite the stereotype often being the opposite. This is because we should be able to seek accomplishment and happiness outside of a degree, and knitting is an amazing way to reduce the stress that a degree can bring. Making time to try new hobbies and have mindful moments is extremely important, and we should always pencil in time to work on our hobbies.

I have not been knitting for long, and it has taken a few tries to get the hang of it. However, trying this activity has already left me feeling more self-fulfilled. I am currently itching to complete my scarf, and I hope to be wearing it before the summer months come around. I must admit, it is enjoyable to have a little project that does not have a deadline or designated feedback.