This group was inspired by Jon Tara Manning's book, MINDFUL KNITTING, which
explores the way that the art and craft of knitting can open us to a deeper awareness of
the fragility and beauty of the present moment just as it is. By joining our knitting
practice with an awareness of our breath, we practice and develop a meditative focus
that supports and sustains our ability to maintain focus in or knitting practice and also
in other aspects of our lives.
While Manning's book is explicitly concerned with mindfulness in the tradition of
Tibetan Buddhism, she stresses (as we do) its compatibility with other spiritual
practices and traditions. We welcome to our group knitters from all faith backgrounds
with an interest in cultivating mindfulness to our group. Want-to-be knitters are also
welcome.
The format of the group will be to begin our meeting with fifteen minute exchange
about our home practice in mindful knitting. This will be followed by a period of silent
knitting meditation (20 minutes), after which we will have further discussion,
collaborate on helping each other solve our knitting problems, learn a new stitch or
two, enjoy refreshments --and, of course, knit some more!
It is our hope that many of us will be inspired to share the fruits of our knitting practice
with those in need. On this site you will find a list of organizations that need knitted
items. I will also update the site with patterns and other knitting resources.
Periodically, I will offer knitting instruction, particularly as the group first gets
established. Please check back here for more information.
Peace,
Map'ung Ashley Pryor
