Getting crafty!

I CAN’T say that I am particularly handy with needles, but I always wanted to learn how to knit. Now learning how to knit might not be at the top of your autumn to-do list, but it should be, and there’s a group that has just launched in Calvia which could be right up your street. Kay Halley, a skilled knitter, crocheter and seamstress, has instigated the group and is willing to pass on her skills and empower others to do the same. 

Knitting has a wide variety of benefits as well as having something comfy to wear or give away at the end of the process.  

It gives you a sense of pride. Not a lot of people know how to knit. Showing off something you’ve knitted to someone who has no idea how you managed it is like showing off some sort of new magic trick. They’re going to be in awe of your newly acquired witchcraft and you’ll receive a ton of compliments (plus requests for scarves, but you can handle that however you want).  

It has the same benefits as meditation. Once you figure out what you’re doing, knitting can be very relaxing. The rhythmic, repetitive motion and relaxation has the same benefits for your mind and body as a meditation session, except you get a blanket at the end.

It alleviates symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. Not only does working on something you enjoy help, but the actual motions involved assist in creating a better mood. The repetitive action of needlework can induce a relaxed state like that associated with meditation and yoga. 

It helps improve motor functions. Because knitting stimulates almost the whole brain at once it can be used to help people with diseases like Parkinson’s improve their motor functions. It both helps improve their fine motor skills and distracts from other painful symptoms.

It slows cognitive decline. The more you use your brain, the healthier it becomes, and the longer it lasts. People who engage in crafts (including knitting) are about 30-50 per cent less likely to have a ‘mild cognitive impairment’ than those who don’t.

It helps prevent arthritis and tendinitis. Already have arthritis? Try soaking your hands in some warm water and using larger needles to create your masterpieces.

AND, it widens your social circle: the Wednesday Group meets from 10am to noon every Wednesday.  You can learn to knit, crochet, and sew, or work on improving your skills, or help others to learn, be creative and make friends. You can meet up with other people and at the same time support local charities as the projects can be made for local charities to use or sell. 

Contact Kay on 971 676 116 for more information. The group meets at the Assocuacio Veinats 3, Carrer de la Lluna, Bendinat, Calvia every Wednesday and absolutely everyone is welcome to join. 

ww.mallorcamatters.com