Celebrating the winter solstice has been as meaningful for some of us as any holiday. The idea of the return to the light is very symbolic and for me, reminds me the that with light comes growth. With the coming of light (YEAH! The days are getting longer), we look toward the new year.
The new year brings hope, optimism and opportunity. Celebrate the coming of light and the arrival of the New Year with the good cheer that this time of year exudes.
#1 Make It Enjoyable!
The word resolution is defined as deciding to do or not do something. Another definition is the smallest interval measurable by a scientific (especially optical) instrument; the resolving power. How interesting to be reminded that resolution can also be a small optical measure. "Look" at life with introspect and keep that resolution manageable I say!
New Year's can be a time for fun so be sure to kick back, grab a glass of wine and think about what makes YOU feel good. Make your resolution about something that you want to do. Small is good for your resolution and keep away from those burdensome resolutions. It's time to learn how to knit or to look through those patterns you want to try and find the pleasure of creating. Darn Good Yarn is exploring new habits this January so sign up for our newsletter and explore with us as we all start the new year.
# 2 Review and Renew!
Look back and see what the path of 2022 brought to you. Let some of the stress go out of your life and create a new habit. Whether knitting, crocheting, weaving, rug hooking or other creative venues the repetition of pattern is relaxing and meditative. Give yourself the pleasure of learning a fiber craft where you can also renew your spirit and has been shown to offer health benefits as a Washington Post article states. Being joyful is good for us in so many ways so get those needles out!
# 3 Be Present!
And then jump into the here and now. Is there something that you have been wanting to do with fiber? Are you a beginner who needs a bit of confidence with where to start? Watch this video to learn how to do basic arm knitting. This is just one option for picking up a new habit!
#4 Start at the beginning!
There are so many options for creative uses of fiber that it can be overwhelming. We are here to help and with many kit options such as the Celebration Scarf Kit. Scarves can be a great project for learning basic stitches and I once made a scarf with 6 inches of one stitch, six inches of another and the repetition of doing the different stitches over and over taught me the stitches and created a unique scarf. Simple IS good!
#5 Go forth with needles (or not!)
How do you create? Finger or arm knitting, homemade simple loom, a nail to work from with your macrame project... the tools can be simple and the project beautiful. Working with fiber, feeling the texture in your hands, and learning a few basic stitches or creative ideas for other fiber uses can give immeasurable joy. Let your imperfections show and learn from your mistakes. Remember that mistakes are beautiful too! Art is about process and growth is too! Enjoy a fun habit.
# 6 Break free of the idea that a resolution has to be a battle with yourself
Be joyful in seeking your new habit or picking up that old knitting project that you want to finish. Go into the New Year with the feeling of anticipation, inspiration and happiness that a fiber addiction can give. Thrill yourself with taking on the resolution for creating more happiness and letting it shine as each day we gain more light.