What Is Your Zen?

Knitting is my Zen. “What is Zen?” you may ask… According to the dictionary definition, Zen is: a Japanese school of Mahayana Buddhism emphasizing the value of meditation and intuition. It also states, “peaceful and calm.” But… we don’t need to get into all of that deep stuff, just know that Zen is all things good!

To experience Zen means to achieve a state of calm attentiveness by intuition rather than by conscious effort. It’s about being fully present, finding peace in the moment, and letting go of distracting thoughts. When you knit, you engage in a repetitive, rhythmic motion that can quiet the mind and foster mindfulness.

For me, creating something with my own hands — whether it’s knitting, sewing by hand, or designing (sketching) my next project — invites a similar state of flow. However, I seem to ALWAYS come back to my knitting… The focus required to follow patterns and make precise movements in knitting naturally draws me away from worries and external noise. As a result, this can become a meditative practice that helps me attain that peaceful, centered feeling associated with Zen.

Through knitting, I am not just making a product; I am cultivating patience, presence, and calm — essential components of the Zen experience. People sometimes laugh when I say, “Knitting is my Zen”. Well… I encourage you to experience it for yourself, promise you won’t be disappointed.

Now, tell me, what is your Zen?