Every Wednesday from 12:30 until 1:30 the Maker Space (Level 2 of the library) is open for our weekly #Yarnfulness session.
We have all the supplies that you need to start knitting or crocheting. We even have some people on hand to help you to get started if you have never tried it.
You can try knitting or crocheting your own project or you can try knitting one of our charity knits (these may be a baby hat for a preemie or a teddy, but these change regularly). This semester we are starting a blanker for Knit for peace, where you can knit or crochet squares which will be added together to make a blanket.
According to Knit for Peace, a network of over 15,000 knitters in the UK who knit for people in need, there is substantial evidence that suggests knitting is beneficial to a healthy mind and body.
Harvard medical school did a study in 2007 and found that knitting lowers the heart rate, by an average of 11 beats per minute, and induces an “enhanced state of calm”, similar to that of yoga.
In addition to its calming effects, knitting can distract from chronic pain – as the focus is turned elsewhere. The repetitive movements required to create a pattern release calming serotonin, which can lift moods and dull pain, according to findings.
It is a sociable activity that can help to overcome isolation and loneliness. So come along on Wednesdays and have a chat, and reach an enhanced state of calm (well maybe not when you are beginning 🙂 – but you will meet some nice people.)