The Just Breathe Initiative

KNITTING AND MEDITATION - IS THERE A CONNECTION?

Remember to just breathe...

There have been a number of  articles published recently discussing the many health benefits (mental, physical, and emotional) of knitting and how doing it on a regular basis is akin to meditation.  I don't dispute any  of this, as I'm not a doctor; I'm just a part-time knitwear designer, but, in my opinion, any form of creativity, whether it's writing, drawing, painting, sewing, quilting, or even music, can be meditative and beneficial for your well-being.  It just so happens that knitting and embroidery are my creative outlets, so that's why these articles have been catching my eye.

Over the years, I have seen quite a few of my friends and family members, myself included, struggle with depression and anxiety, mostly in silence.  I have also seen how meditation and art can have a very positive impact on their road to recovery.  Because of this, I would like to encourage everyone to be creative.  If you are a DIYer like I am, please check out my website.  I am releasing new knitting patterns every month, and from September 26th to October 10th every year, I will be promoting mental health awareness in honour of World Mental Health Day, which is on October 10th, by offering all TLA Exclusive knitting patterns for half price.  Art should be accessible to everyone, so I will be doing what I can with my craft to ensure that every knitter has access to great patterns for great projects.

Also, in honour of my cousin, whose idea it was to start the Just Breathe Initiative, I will be releasing one knitting pattern every year on September 26th that will be free to download until the following September 26th, when a new free pattern will be released in its place.

Remember it's okay to talk about it...

If you are struggling with anxiety and depression, please reach out and call the local helpline in your area.

Gabrielle Vansteelandt
Times Lost Art