Much of our work at Creative Restoration is based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This is an evidence-based psychological approach that we draw on in our clinical work. It also forms the foundations of our course Self Care One Stitch at a Time. In this brief video Dr Paula Redmond, Clinical Psychologist, outlines the links between knitting and ACT processes. She describes how knitting can function as an embodied practice of psychological flexibility.
What is psychological flexibility?
Psychological flexibility is our ability to stay present with our experiences, make room for difficult thoughts and feelings, and take action guided by what matters to us.
It’s not about always feeling calm or positive. Instead, it’s about how we respond when things don’t go quite as we’d hoped.
And knitting gives us plenty of opportunities to practise!
How can knitting help us practise psychological flexibility?
Whether we’re learning to knit, choosing a new project or working through a tricky pattern, knitting invites us to notice our experiences and make choices about what we do next.
In this presentation, we explore how the everyday experience of knitting connects with ACT’s three core processes: getting present, opening up and doing what matters.
