Has everyone else noticed that you don’t see people’s faces as much anymore because they’re always face planting into their phones? I’ve run into people, people have run into me, I’ve seen someone almost get hit by a car, have been stuck behind someone on the highway going 35 miles an hour because, yup, you guessed it, they’re looking at their phone instead of the GD road. I mean, we (myself included) look like a bunch of a-holes. Getting on the elevator makes me feel like I’m on an episode of Black Mirror. We rarely greet anyone anymore. People get on the lift looking at their phone and get off of it looking at their phone. We are hypnotized by smartphones and social media. Shit. And trust me, I get it. Bloggers depend on those two things big time. But, as my high school dean used to conclude his morning announcements with, “as with all things ladies and gentlemen….moderation.” Solid advice, right? I personally have to draw the line somewhere. Here’s my plan. The other day while minimizing around the house, I came about my knitting needles and a beautiful scarf I had started for Anthony. I had messed it up at some point along the way and meant to go for help at my favorite knit shop in the city. My intentions were there, but then life happened. Fast forward four years later and I’m back to knitting until my nips pop off. I almost forgot how good it feels to knit.
There are so many elements of this craft that I can go on about for days for, but the most prominent benefit for me is that it takes my eyes, ears, hands, and mind off of my damn phone. I spend a lot of time on social media, especially on our Instagram account. We use that platform to grow our network of fellow bloggers and other individuals with common interests. It helps spread the word about who we are and all of the cool ass shit we want to share with the world. I know how much time I spend doing that, so when I found that unfinished scarf, it was a sign. The universe was sending me a message to put my device down and create something using another medium. And so I shall. If you have never knit before, here are more reasons to give this old as hell, but extra cool craft an opportunity.
Takes me away from my phone. We’ve already covered this, but just to reinforce. Basically, I’ll do anything to get my ass off the phone a bit more often.
It’s super chill. Who knew that making knots and patterns with two sticks could be so relaxing? There’s no doubt in my mind that knitting helps relieve anxiety and calms the mind and body. It’s extraordinarily therapeutic. In a way, it’s very much a form of meditation.
Who doesn’t love a homemade gift? The idea of actually making something with my own hands then giving it to a loved one as a gift is high on my list of things I love to do. My specialty (and the only thing I can create at the moment without royally messing it up) are cowls. Not only are cowls cozy, but they are the perfect accessory during the colder winter months. Keep your eyes and ears peeled – I’ll be doing a giveaway for Valentine’s Day!
Knitting is not hard. It really isn’t. Go with some thicker yarn and some bigger needles in the beginning. (I started with size 12). Once you get going, it’s a breeze. Spoiler: Go to Nina on Division Street!
Challenges the mind and hand coordination. There is a pattern to be followed. If you don’t pay attention or keep somewhat of a keen eye on your creation, you can mess it up. Knitting encourages you to stay focused for longer, as well as have the hands and mind move in unison. Again, there is a strong meditative aspect to knitting.
Knitting is extra hygge. Knitting equates to coziness. Coziness equates to hygge. Anything hygge equates to me wanting more of it. I’m going full-on hygge all year round. Come join the fun! Haven’t heard of hygge yet? Oh, don’t you worry, here you go…prepare to become obsessed.
It makes me happy. I literally found myself smiling yesterday while making a cowl for a loved one. It warms my heart.
Nina. Back when I first wanted to give knitting a shot, I headed to Nina for a lesson. The girls there are super nice and beyond helpful. Tell Hilary that Lauren from The Sister Project sent ya! She’ll have you knitting in no time!
Knitting keeps you busy. …..whether on a plane, in a waiting room, or at a family gathering when you just want to be left alone. Knitting can take care of all of that, letting you create masterpieces in the meantime!
I want to make a big ass blanket. This is on my bucket list of things to do. We are redecorating our television room in an extra cozy, hygge way. I want people to come over and cuddle under a gigantic knit blanket that I made with my own two hands. I heard it’s actually an arm workout too, so that’s a plus.
Let’s chat. Do you knit? Have you knit in the past? Do you hate knitting and will never do it again?
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