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Knit one, purl one, knit one, purl one. The rhythmic and repetitive nature of knitting is undoubtedly calming and satisfying. You probably never thought that knitting or embroidery could be a mindfulness practice or even a form of meditation.
We’d like to show you how neuroscience has uncovered the benefits of knitting for our mental health. Research shows that this activity has a positive effect on brain function and well‑being, and many of these benefits also apply to other forms of artistic creation, such as painting, drawing, or even coloring books.
What has research shown about knitting and its effect on the brain?
British neuroscientist Betsan Corkhill conducted an online survey in which more than 3500 people who knit participated. The results showed that more than half of respondents reported positive feelings evoked by knitting, including relaxation, stress reduction, and improved creative thinking.
The study also found that more frequent knitting (more than three times a week) led to better mood, lower anxiety, greater well‑being, and increased self‑awareness.
10 reasons why knitting benefits your brain
- Improves mental abilities and problem-solving: Knitting requires concentration and logical thinking, which strengthens mental abilities.
- Promotes social interaction: Knitting in groups is a great way to improve interpersonal relationships.
- Develops mindfulness: This activity helps improve the ability to focus on the present moment.
- Develops hand-eye coordination: Knitting improves fine motor skills and spatial awareness.
- Encourages learning new things: New patterns and knitting techniques improve the ability to learn and adapt.
- Improves concentration: Knitting helps you stay focused on a single task and complete it effectively.
- Increases creativity: Creating new patterns and designs encourages creative thinking.
- Strengthens pride in the finished work: Knitting brings a sense of satisfaction and pride in the results.
- Teaches patience: Knitting is a process that requires time and perseverance.
- Supports memory: Keeping track of patterns and steps improves memory.
Benefits of knitting as a meditation technique
Research shows that knitting, like meditation, can bring a deep meditative state. This state of concentration and focus is known as “flow”, which the psychologist Mihály Csíkszentmihályi describes as complete absorption in the activity being performed, in which a person is completely focused and feels as if nothing else exists.
Neuroscientists argue that knitting has the potential to deliver meditative benefits to a broader group of people because it doesn’t require the long training that traditional meditation practices do. Everything comes naturally as a side effect of knitting.
Conclusion
Research shows that knitting not only improves mental health and creativity, but also contributes to better concentration, patience, and stronger social bonds. If you knit regularly, it can become a great form of meditation that will boost your mood, relieve stress, and help you stay focused on the present. So remember that knitting can be not only creative but also a therapeutic activity for your brain.
