Calming

I learned to knit and crochet as a child. I made lots of afghans. As a young mother I expanded my skills to include dolls and other fun items for my children. My children grew up, other skills and opportunities entered my life, and over time I set down the yarn and moved on to other hobbies.

I later developed chronic back pain that left me bed-ridden quite often. In an effort to change my focus from the pain, I picked up a skein a yarn and started to knit and crochet again. This is actually where the Knit and Crochet Bible Study started to stitch together.

There are many articles available in print and online about the health benefits of knitting and crochet. Some of these benefits include:
reducing anxiety
relieving depression
increasing self-esteem
working through grief and pain
alleviating stress

One big benefit is reflected in Knit Crochet Bible Studies and other Groups: it creates community.

When feeling pain, depression, anxiety, etcetera, many will isolate themselves. This unknowingly adds to the symptoms furthering the condition. (this I can affirm from experience)

Speaking with others, sharing life and it's many stressors, helps create a sense of community, of belonging. We are reminded others experience these same things, though in different manners. Scripture encourages us not be isolated.

And let us not neglect our meeting together, but encourage one another - Hebrews 10:25

For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am among them - Matthew 18:20

Bear one another's burdens - Galatians 6:2

You are not alone. Find someone you can share with, pick up your yarn and stitch your way into His Word, into each other's lives, into better health and focus.

(This post is originally posted in my Knit and Crochet Bible Study newsletter and on my blog. It is repeated here to encourage SteemIt followers)