As the end of 2016 inevitably draws near many of us will begin to look back and see what this year has been like for us. Have we accomplished something significant? Have we learned a new skill? Have we made it to Greece and were finally able to cross it off our bucket list?
So looking back at 2016, have you learned something new? Have you picked up a new hobby or a skill that brings you joy, motivates you or helps you de-stress?
And more importantly, as we set our goals for 2017 - what would you like to accomplish next year? What would you like to feed your brain to make it happy?
We would humbly like to recommend knitting as your next adventure.
A few blog posts ago we talked about the health benefits of knitting. Among the perks of picking up yarn and needles is increased mental agility and a sharper mind that staves off mental decline that naturally comes with age. Knitting requires us to problem-solve, and the analysis and decision-making that goes into it is the superfood for our brains.
Knitting is also social. You likely have seen posters for local get togethers, knit clubs and knit-a-thons that raise money for charity. Knitters love to bond over their favorite tools, patterns and secret methods of making that stitch just so.
The Psychological Science journal did a study on what type of activities are most beneficial to the aging brain.
“It seems it is not enough just to get out and do something—it is important to get out and do something that is unfamiliar and mentally challenging, and that provides broad stimulation mentally and socially,” Denise Park, a psychological scientist and lead researcher stated. “When you are inside your comfort zone you may be outside of the enhancement zone.” (source)
Knitting will hit both marks easily - making you do something mentally and even physically challenging (we've all been there, holding the needles awkwardly for the first time in our lives). It will also motivate you to be more social and to engage with other knitters in the community.
As a perfect way to begin learning to knit, we suggest getting our DIY knitting kit. It comes complete with yarn, needles and a simple pattern to get you started.
Check out our DIY collection here and let us know what other DIY kits you want to see in our shop!
Let's get talking - what has been your favorite new skill you learned this year? Comment below and let us know.