Why I Knit - Knitting As a Form of Self-Care

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  • Опубликовано: 11 янв 2025

Комментарии • 94

  • @pam3515
    @pam3515 4 года назад +28

    Loved this one. I really became a process knitter when one of my kids was diagnosed with cancer. Knitting kept me sane. I could do it at home, in the hospital, anywhere. That was when I started knitting shawls that were mostly garter stitch and the repetitive movements helped me move through the days, one stitch at a time. I wasn’t even interested in most of the projects; i just needed the meditative nature of knitting.
    I also credit knitting with helping me learn to let go of perfection. I did a purl instead of knit stitch 5 rows down? I learned to let it go and accept it as fine. Past-me would have freaked out. I save my energy for more worthy reasons now. In related news, 2020 has drained me. Between spinning and knitting, my hands have become stronger this year. Tired, but stronger.
    Thank you for sharing this update with us. I hope your new home has a room dedicated to your stash!

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад +1

      I’m so happy knitting had helped you make it though tough times 😊 And thanks... no stash room, but I definitely will have MUCH more space!

  • @emilydonahuewickline4256
    @emilydonahuewickline4256 4 года назад +8

    Thank you for sharing. So many of us feel the anxiety of these troubled days. Knitting is a comfort and the community is so supportive. Stay well and enjoy settling into your new home.

  • @knithabits
    @knithabits 4 года назад +4

    I loved your video. As a licensed therapist and knitter I know how helpful knitting is to the mind and soul. I was also very happy that you discussed anxiety and mental health in general. The more people are able to talk about mental health the less stigmatizing it will be overall.

  • @wommy2010
    @wommy2010 4 года назад +6

    Caleb! This was so real and vulnerable

  • @michelewalty7991
    @michelewalty7991 4 года назад +3

    Yes, my crafting is mindful meditation. I cannot believe how much it helps me to take a breath, relax, and let go. Thank you for taking on this subject matter. I believe the more we share, the closer we get to others, the more we grow.

  • @frunzid1
    @frunzid1 4 года назад +4

    Thanks so much for being so raw in sharing! Knitting and crocheting (especially for the homeless and addicted) keeps me a little more sane as well. Good luck with your move (that can be stressful as well) - I am sending you huge virtual hugs!

  • @dr.evelynsharp2351
    @dr.evelynsharp2351 4 года назад +2

    You taking care of yourself helps make the world a better place. Period. Now, add in knitting to that equation and you're adding beauty, and/or knowledge, and/or peacefulness to the world. Hugs to you!! (From a safe distance, of course.)

  • @heatherw.6834
    @heatherw.6834 4 года назад +3

    Thank you for sharing. I have struggled my whole life with anxiety, depression and nervousness, like many 2020 has been a hard year for me. Knitting and crocheting have kept me sane. There have been many sleepless nights where knitting on my projects has relaxed me to the point I can doze off. Knitting is just a great hobby in so many ways. Congrats on your new condo and good luck with the move.🙏🏻

  • @nataliematson5164
    @nataliematson5164 3 года назад

    Thank you for putting into words what knitting does for us and to us. I have never been able to explain how knitting is for me and you have done that today. I deliberately knit shawls so that I feel like my knitting will never end. An endless shawl almost. I appreciate your honesty and your self compassion in this video. It has been comforting and inspiring. We are truly blessed to be able to knit.

  • @AnnaKlura
    @AnnaKlura 4 года назад +4

    Yes yes yes! Thank you! You pretty much nailed it in this video.
    A couple of weeks ago I posted about me not having any knitting mojo. Thanks to you and your soothing voice and healthy(!) thoughts I think I found it again.
    It helps me rest my brain at the same time as it gets to focus on something completely different than me recovering from covid.

  • @ulli4303
    @ulli4303 4 года назад

    Thanks for such an honest video. For me, chronic ptsd, cfs, knitting and crochet have been safe spaces as well, they are an outlet for my creativity without being too demanding, they make flow possible for me

  • @jackievanpatten8499
    @jackievanpatten8499 4 года назад +3

    You are such a gem. Thank for so much for sharing this and grounding us with you. Congrats on the condo and best of luck moving.

  • @phillipmarsh4886
    @phillipmarsh4886 2 года назад

    I know I am just seeing this now, almost 2 years later..... However, I appreciate your vulnerability! it was something I deeply needed to hear today! We have a lot in common, and I am working on allowing myself to knit for me for just the joy it gives me! Thank you! I hope you and Brian are well!

  • @Doveyarns
    @Doveyarns 4 года назад +2

    When you started talking about having a lot of anxiety I really felt that. This is why you're my favorite knitting youtube channel. Because I can relate to you on such a personal level. :)

  • @ginaharbour5381
    @ginaharbour5381 4 года назад +3

    It’s really hard right now. Sometimes I feel like I’m in Bizarro world. You aren’t alone. Take care of yourself. Knitting can really help. I’ve been knitting like crazy and sometimes it’s all I want to do. We’re lucky to have such a healing hobby. Big hugs!

  • @melodyphillips2817
    @melodyphillips2817 4 года назад +2

    It’s so nice to hear that I am not alone. I feel exactly the same way right now!! Knitting is my ‘calm corner’. I teach first grade and we are virtual. At the end of the day I need to get away from the digital. Knitting is the tactile escape that brings me back to center.

  • @LeahRachelB
    @LeahRachelB 3 года назад

    So happy I stumbled across this video because I started knitting last month for the EXACT same reason! I’ve had a few breakdowns during these troubling times, and knitting really allows me to quiet the mind. As an analogy- even though I’m eager to see the final result of my knitting project, all I can do is take it one stitch at a time, no shortcuts. Life works the same way and so this activity really helps put me in the present. Thank you for sharing 💓

  • @touchedbyfire99
    @touchedbyfire99 3 года назад

    Totally get you - it is the same for me - all my life I have done this to manage anxiety and ground myself.

  • @jinnyedge6180
    @jinnyedge6180 4 года назад +8

    This is the first of your videos I have come across and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I have , in the last year, had 7 operations for a brain tumour, leaving me very compromised physically and cognitively. At the moment, knitting is my way of coping with my difficulties. My co-ordination is only good enough to do knit stitch, but that means Ivan still turn out (slowly) hats, scarves and dishcloths for charity. I have subscribed and am looking forward to seeing more of your videos. Jinny

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад

      I’m sorry to hear about, but I’m happy you found something that is helpful 😊

  • @summerleedesignco.6471
    @summerleedesignco.6471 4 года назад +1

    Beautiful sentiments, and beautiful video! Loved the gorgeous videography and that sweater!!!! Congratulations on your new home!! Buying a home is so super stressful, so I hope once all the closing/moving is complete, you'll be able to decompress. Hugs!

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад

      Thank you so much 😊 ♥️♥️♥️

  • @annahanley5106
    @annahanley5106 4 года назад

    Thank you for sharing. Just being you is helping so many of us. Congratulations on your new home!

  • @howardsbignose452
    @howardsbignose452 4 года назад +1

    Caleb thank you so much for this. Beautifully done and very moving. I think many of us are in the same boat as you I send you warm thoughts and big hugs

  • @celestedouville2529
    @celestedouville2529 4 года назад

    blessings. thank you for all of what you acknowledge here and congratulations on the condo and merging households!

  • @marleenneil7542
    @marleenneil7542 2 года назад

    You are so right; knitting for me means tuning out the “noise.”

  • @debrademingwalsh7495
    @debrademingwalsh7495 3 года назад

    I'm currently knitting a difficult sweater with a complicated Fair Isle pattern as I mourn the loss of my father... it's only been a few months and I have put my self into a better place by escaping into the sweater and just experiencing my feelings while I wrestle with the sweater
    I just found your channel recently and I've been slowly working through your videos... sending love and light and wishes for lots of knitting time for us all in the New Year 💓

  • @mistyblue5312
    @mistyblue5312 4 года назад +1

    Caleb know that you are not alone...every single one of us are having anxious thoughts about something or the other right now. As a person of mixed heritage, 2020 has been a difficult year for me. Glad we have knitting and supportive groups. Looking forward to seeing your crafting space in your new Condo.

  • @3rdand105
    @3rdand105 3 года назад

    First, thank you so much for this video in particular; it's one of the bravest and most vulnerable things I've experienced in a while.
    Second, I'm grateful you found something that helps you get through, one that doesn't hurt anyone. It means you can keep moving in a positive direction, which is crucial for survival.
    Third, my take on knitting is different. I learned to knit in high school, being a rebel; the other boys called me names, but it made me quite popular with the ladies, so I'm thinking they were jealous. That has remained true all these years (I learned back in 1986). But I don't knit as a means of attracting attention, it's a show of appreciation for others. Having had my struggles with depression since childhood (long story), I rarely knit for myself, I just don't seem to make the grade in that respect. But there are so many good people around me, I can't help but work on things for them. It's usually hats or afghans, depending on the occasion, but it sends a message: I'm grateful to know them, at least at this stage in life. My preferred medium is worsted-weight acrylics, because it's inexpensive, nobody is allergic to it, it's good for cold weather, it's machine washable and quite durable, and in my experience, it doesn't have to be blocked. I do two sweaters around Christmastime; this year, I'm working on a Scandinavian pattern, my first experience with stranded knitting. But I've gone on long enough here.
    Finally, don't be afraid of the cable needle. The result is definitely worth the effort.

  • @lisagimblett8646
    @lisagimblett8646 4 года назад

    Knitting is my outlet for creativity and an escape from the craziness of the world right now. I enjoy listening to podcasts while I make my loops. Knitting is a great anxiety reliever and I am glad that it is helping you during these troubling times. Love your podcast and your openness... thanks for sharing

  • @maureenbyrne9171
    @maureenbyrne9171 4 года назад

    I feel very much like you do. Deep breaths. I am very grateful for knitting and crocheting keeping my hands busy, and calming my mind. Congrats on your condo. God bless you!

  • @susanroche1760
    @susanroche1760 3 года назад

    Thank you for sharing from the heart ♥️

  • @victoriaholt7772
    @victoriaholt7772 4 года назад

    Me too, Caleb! Me too! Knitting calms my brain and turns off my internal conversation when stressed! Well done buddy!

  • @joanarnold82
    @joanarnold82 4 года назад +1

    Knitting is the same for me, too. It's a stress relief I need when stress gets overwhelming. A lot of non-knitters dont understand that about the craft. One loop in front of the other.

  • @donnafink6262
    @donnafink6262 4 года назад

    Thank you for sharing. In our world today we have important but limited opportunities to make change. With our knitting we can make something that moves from thought, knitting needles, yarn choice, pattern and finally a lovely finished accomplishment. Take good care.

  • @tonizegarra2179
    @tonizegarra2179 4 года назад

    So thankful for this episode. You are so true to yourself and the life we are all facing this year (Covid, social inequalities, politics, personal worries, etc) all I can say is that I feel exactly the you you feel and my knitting gives me so much comfort. It’s a wonderful activity that I love so much. No day goes by without a few sets or rows in one of my projects. I am so happy for you closing on your condo. Good luck and enjoy it ❤️🧶❤️

  • @robintaylor7150
    @robintaylor7150 4 года назад

    As someone who also struggles with anxiety your video really resonates with me. Knitting helps. These are difficult times; thank you for sharing your thoughts and congratulations on your condo!

  • @michellebee1117
    @michellebee1117 3 года назад

    Thank you for being brave enough to share your vulnerability. ❤

  • @annalderman5612
    @annalderman5612 4 года назад

    Thank you for sharing. I really needed to hear/see this today.

  • @Saminah1990
    @Saminah1990 4 года назад

    Thank you knitting and crochet helps me to think things through with a calm mind as ii am a very anxious person

  • @Sc00terNut
    @Sc00terNut 2 года назад

    Thank you for sharing. This video really resonates with me. So far only two things have helped relieve anxiety and that is weightlifting and knitting, as odd as it might sound.

  • @Lisa-vb3gn
    @Lisa-vb3gn 4 года назад

    Thanks for sharing your ideas so thoughtfully. Good luck with your move!

  • @culinarygurly987
    @culinarygurly987 3 года назад

    I totally get that knitting and crafting in general is a form of escape and zen resetting the mind. Lately personal family stuff has been starting to effect me in my own mental space and casting more issues toward my crafting ( adding stress into that world) and I have dug my heels in and stated that it is this or someone can pay for a therapist to tell me to try knitting again.
    It is a good space to mute the mind and reorganize.

  • @deebeefromnc54
    @deebeefromnc54 4 года назад +4

    As a knitter in my 60's I feel the last few years have revealed SEVERAL serious issues that can bring on an overload of stress. Knitting is one of the activities that can help to calm ones soul. The rythemic motion of the needles, at times, almost puts me to sleep. LOL I agree about letting go of the perfectionist part, but I will find that a challenge. At least I plan to remain a knitter no matter what. Too many projects on My To Do List !! ;)

  • @TheFroggie66
    @TheFroggie66 4 года назад

    Amen, buddy!!! The centering and focus of knitting is so life-balancing. So good for our serenity and mental health. As an HSP, I relate to you. Be well!

  • @kathybretl5280
    @kathybretl5280 4 года назад

    Thank you for this episode, Caleb!! And, congratulations on your new home!!!

  • @peepers4763
    @peepers4763 4 года назад +1

    Congratulations on the new condo!

  • @candeeharris7509
    @candeeharris7509 4 года назад +1

    Caleb, thanks for sharing. I have similar feelings about 2020, it has drained all. Congratulations on the new home. See you soon 🤓🧶

  • @alyssehennessey1837
    @alyssehennessey1837 4 года назад

    I really enjoyed this and relate to some of the things you shared. Knitting is soooo soothing for me and I also need to move my hands. I’m doing something creative and gentle but don’t have to go away from my family to do it. It’s been such a support over the last year. 💚

  • @sarasteenhouse8020
    @sarasteenhouse8020 4 года назад

    What a thoughtful video. Thank you for naming the stress of these days that we're all carrying and checking in with a reminder that knitting can help us cope. The meditation and stillness it takes to create something is soothing and centering - I just heard someone suggest to align breathing with stitches and I'm going to give it a try! Congrats on the condo and best wishes for the coming weeks as you get through the move.

  • @BrendieR
    @BrendieR 4 года назад +1

    Hope everything goes smoothly with your move. xx

  • @kathynadeau1170
    @kathynadeau1170 4 года назад

    Congrats on the new condo! Love your honesty and candidness. Knitting is such a great creative outlet. When first learning to knit, I used to stress over mistakes and tension. Wanting every stitch to be perfect. So I stopped for years. Decided to try again a few years ago, but with the mindset that with practice I’d get better and just enjoy the process. I now knit almost daily and am thoroughly enjoying it along with watching all the great podcasters like yourself!

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад

      Thank you! It’s so great you rediscovered knitting and it’s been such a big part of your life now!!!

  • @yarnpower
    @yarnpower 4 года назад

    Yes, knitting helps us relax in these very troubled times.
    It makes sense that repetitive movements work that way. Think of our tribal ancestors or those of a hundred years ago. There was activities like making wooden tools and weapons, building a shelter and later baking from scratch, butter churning, etc. In our modern world there are not as many jobs that use hand skill.
    I have knit myself and family lots of hats and scarves so now I am making them for charity groups! Because I love to knit!

  • @teresasheehan7570
    @teresasheehan7570 4 года назад

    These videos make my stress go away! So inspiring so keep them coming. Happy knitting to you.🧶🧶👍🏻👍🏻

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад

      Thank you! I’m glad you enjoy them 😊

  • @brendamarion43
    @brendamarion43 4 года назад

    Caleb, thank you for sharing a part of your story. I definitely resonate with everything you shared. Knitting has been my self-care as well. I came back to it in 2017 when I lost my fiancee. It really helped pull me out of depression and anxiety. I've continued with it and have met so many wonderful people in the knitting/crochet.....or shall I say "makers" community (not to leave out any craft). I love it and it makes me happy and calms me down thru these stressful times. Peace be with you and upon you.🙏😊

  • @Valentina-km8cg
    @Valentina-km8cg 4 года назад

    Thanks for laying it out there. With all the stresses these days it's tough. Everyone has their own battles as well. (My husband has adv. Parkinson's and dementia). Moving in the best of times is very stressful. Good luck and hope you can carve out some knitting time during the move. It will center you. You'll be fine, Caleb. It's life.

  • @ddofat
    @ddofat 4 года назад

    Knitting/crafting is very therapeutic. Love your videos.

  • @TheOldeCrow
    @TheOldeCrow 4 года назад

    Ditto. Just found your channel and yes I subscribed. Nice to see another " real" person. A lot of people who are on RUclips I feel, are putting on a show. Just my opinion. Now I have to binge watch your videos.😋 Excited to see more. Congrats on the new home! I just moved 2 months ago, just now getting back into my knitting and crocheting rhythms.

  • @susank5571
    @susank5571 4 года назад

    Thank you for this. I needed it

  • @julianjefferson9613
    @julianjefferson9613 4 года назад

    Excellent video

  • @amandadavispomeroy
    @amandadavispomeroy 4 года назад

    I’ve been a subscriber since your first video but I haven’t watched until today. I am so glad this was the first one I watched. I totally relate to almost everything you said. I have been knitting more in the last 7 months than the previous years. It’s both a pleasure & a means of coping with my CPTSD. 💜

  • @marym825
    @marym825 4 года назад

    Knitting eases my anxiety, also. You described the mindfulness aspect perfectly.

  • @lisanakao1043
    @lisanakao1043 4 года назад +1

    Thanks for sharing, it’s nice to know I am not the only one feeling a bit anxious while recognizing my privilege.. my anxiety comes and goes but when it’s here it can be rough, I just take it one day at a time and knit. Congratulations on the condo.

  • @scttygrrl1
    @scttygrrl1 3 года назад

    Def can relate to this video. My daughter also watches :)

  • @ronniedickes
    @ronniedickes 4 года назад +1

    For me right now, knitting is my go to when I need to come back to earth amidst all the chaos that is happening all around us. It grounds me.

  • @johnfleming2914
    @johnfleming2914 4 года назад

    Moving is very stressful. Remember it is fine to be you, and being you is enough.

  • @suzanneozorak1212
    @suzanneozorak1212 4 года назад +1

    Like what you are knitting!!

  • @Desaundrea
    @Desaundrea 4 года назад

    I am bipolar manic depressive. Crocheting helps me zone out. When I’m not doing it I think too much and everything closes in. Thank you for sharing! 🥰🧶

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад

      I'm glad you have crocheting to help you out :-) Crafting is so therapeutic!

  • @TerriMaresCrochet
    @TerriMaresCrochet 4 года назад

    Thank you for this video. I crochet for self-care. I've got depression.

  • @MilesofRoyalty
    @MilesofRoyalty 4 года назад

    Thank you for sharing! I agree self care is so important. I wish you well🙏🏽😘😘 i find myself to be a stresser too. I use knitting and crochet as my outlet bit realize since ita my outlet everytime something happens that stresses me or alter my happiness i cast on a new project. Soooooo now i have a pile of wips that i told myseld i have to finish. And will!!... As long as 2020 chill for the rest of the year👀👀🤞🏾🤣

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад

      Hahaha. I’m not holding out too much hope for 2020, but I’ll keep my fingers crossed for it anyways 🤣 Do you tend to have a main project plus a bunch of new cast-ons or do you shift focus when you start something new?

  • @MarshaNovak
    @MarshaNovak 4 года назад

    💕 this one. I can really relate.

  • @michellecollins529
    @michellecollins529 4 года назад

    Big hugs to you! 🤗

  • @alanptaylor11
    @alanptaylor11 4 года назад

    Caleb, I expect you'll be flooded with comments from people who feel the same way. I'm working on lace Christmas ornaments using sewing thread and 1.0 mm needles. One benefit is that I have to concentrate on EVERY STITCH. Great way to put the craziness that is 2020 on the back burner for a while. Mazel tov on the condo!

  • @PiaLiljebladh
    @PiaLiljebladh 3 года назад

    Thank you for sharing your very personal inner feelings and thoughts!
    Knitting is therapy for me, I started knitting several years ago when I mentally ’hit the wall’ and ’crashed’, due to too much stress at work.
    By the way, the stitch marker case at 3:40, where can I find that? I like the feature that the lids open from the middle.
    /Pia from Sweden

  • @crazyviking24
    @crazyviking24 3 года назад

    I actually knit as a treatment for anxiety and depression.

  • @kathleenmaloney4255
    @kathleenmaloney4255 4 года назад +1

    Yes

  • @loraevans3423
    @loraevans3423 4 года назад

    Congratulations on the condo!

  • @huebinhtrinh4830
    @huebinhtrinh4830 4 года назад

    You can knit for me I can provide you with materials 😄 but seriously thanks for sharing your thoughts

  • @stephanieladeinde3224
    @stephanieladeinde3224 2 года назад

    Thank you for this awesome video
    It's truly inspiring
    Do you crochet too? I do crochet more

  • @PauZabaletaLlauger
    @PauZabaletaLlauger 4 года назад

    ❤️

  • @patriciabuuck5277
    @patriciabuuck5277 4 года назад +1

    Knitting eases my anxiety and helps centers me. Please don't make political references since we get enough from the media

    • @DrowninginYarn
      @DrowninginYarn  4 года назад +2

      Thanks for your input, but, when I am talking about my struggles and what is going through my mind, it is directly applicable. Additionally, the fact that Black lives matter is not a political statement. It is a fact.