Crochet Your Way to a Calmer You

Some say that crocheting is the new form of meditation. I admit that I am slightly envious of anyone who has the knack for creating with a hooked needle as I myself have yet to master the art.  However, the rhythmic and repetitive motion of crocheting is said to calm the body and mind almost immediately.

Being curious I did some online research and there are tons of websites saying the same thing... so it’s not just an old yarn! (sorry, I couldn’t resist). 

Here are some of the benefits of crocheting

  • Reduces stress and anxiety as the meditative and repetitive actions help focus the mind on a specific activity.

  • Gives a sense of accomplishment upon completion of a crocheting project which can boost self esteem and positivity.

  • Helps with mindfulness and being present in the moment as many techniques require thought, reflection and intentional pauses. 

  • Reduces chronic pain as the focus required to master some complicated techniques may distract from physical pain

Some more reading...

How To Use Crochet To Calm The Mind (Mouse & Sparrow)

Heal Your Mind and Your Body: Top 10 Health Benefits of Crocheting (Hemtique)

Purls of wisdom: the wellbeing benefits of knitting and crocheting (The Guardian Article 2024)

The Power of Yoga

 

Every time I start to practice yoga, I wonder how I ever stopped. We all know the benefits of yoga for the mind, body and soul. When you push yourself to achieve those difficult-to-reach stretches, it feels like personal empowerment that is both rewarding and self-fulfilling. Yoga practice is your own precious time on the mat where no-one can interrupt or bother you. It is a peaceful space for you to breathe deeply and lose those negative feelings encroaching on your life.

Yoga has been around for centuries and is said to have first originated in ancient Hindu India. There are many different forms of yoga with Hatha being the most practiced in the Western world. Although removed from the original yoga ethos that mainly teaches meditation, Hatha focuses predominantly on posture and strengthening the body as well as relaxing the mind through breathing and various other techniques. 

What I love about yoga is that you can do it anytime and anywhere.  All you need is space and time. Writing this, I am reminded that I must try to rediscover this age-old practice again. It is free to do yourself at home with multiple videos on Youtube and other social media platforms.  Or why not try to find a good yoga class near you to get yourself back on the mat.

The Health Benefits Take the Sting Out of It

Most of us never forget the wrath of a stinging nettle. Growing wild in almost every patch of grass across the country, many strolls through the fields in our youth inevitably ended up with someone yelping in agony when stung by a hairy nettle as everyone else scrambled to find a neighbouring dock leaf to soothe the pain.  Luckily there was nearly always one nearby.

Interestingly nettles actually have plenty of health benefits dating back for centuries, particularly when cooked or steeped in boiling water & drank as a tea. With vitamins and minerals, nettles are said to have an abundant amount of antioxidants.  They may also lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and ease hay fever symptoms as well as being a good addition to a detox regime. Many tea brands now produce some delicious nettle blends that are widely available in supermarkets and health shops.  Personally I like Floradix and Clipper brands. Find out more about the benefits on BBC Good Food.

 

Pass the Passiflora

Passiflora complex tincture is made with 70% organic passion flower and 30% organic avena sativa (oats).  It is promoted as a dietary supplement for anxiety and insomnia, especially for those who are worried or feeling under pressure.  Although there is minimal scientific evidence to back this up,  I can say firsthand that passiflora complex works for me.  I have used it to help me sleep and prior to stressful situations.  However,  remember to read instructions carefully for side effects and precautions prior to taking. A Vogel Passiflora Complex

Is Magnesium essential in our diets?

Magnesium is an essential mineral that assists with hundreds of our bodily functions.  It is present in many foods which allows us to easily incorporate it into our daily diet but it is important to keep it at the forefront of our minds as studies show that 50% of us don't regularly consume sufficient levels.  Magnesium assists our bodies with heart health, bone strength, immune functions & glucose levels amongst other critical functions.  Read this BBC Good Food article  (written by Emer Delaney, dietician) outlining the benefits of a magnesium rich diet.

Vegetarians & Vitamin B12

As we know, being a vegetarian or vegan is considered healthy in many ways but these diets may result in B12 deficiency due to lack of meat and fish consumption.  What does this mean?  Vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products. Our bodies require it for the production of red blood cells, nerves, DNA amongst other bodily functions.  The average adult requires 2.4mg per day, however to consume it naturally on a meatless diet is next to impossible.  Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in anaemia, fatigue and low blood pressure.  If you are experiencing these symptoms or concerned about your choice of diet, it is a good idea to get regular bloods tests with your GP who can advise on a course of vitamin supplements or fortified plant-based products.

Simple Lemon & Water

If you're like me, sometimes drinking water to stay hydrated is a chore.  I have started keeping a large jug of water with lemon in the fridge to drink first thing in the morning & throughout the day.  Not only does it keep you hydrated, it may also support skin health, aid digestion and is a good source of vitamin C.  Although the acid levels  in lemon water can cause enamel erosion on teeth, there are many other culprits in our diet including coffee, wine and sugary drinks.  A good tip would be to follow one glass of lemon water with a glass of plain water to limit any side effects.

Mad about Ashwagandha

Around for thousands of years, experts say that this herb can reduce anxiety and boost mental health.  It is now widely available in powder or capsule form or as part of a multi-complex supplement in health shops & pharmacies. (Healthline News)