Natural Health Magazine

Knitting, dubbed "the new yoga" by some enthusiasts, lets you unwind your mind while staying productive and aware. With its soothingly repetitive motions and clicking sounds, knitting provides a subtle meditation tool; the magic of seeing yarn transform into richly textured scarves and sweaters is a groovy bonus.

"Not only do you connect with the work of your hands through knitting, but you can slow down to enjoy the present moment," says Tara Jon Manning, author of Mindful Knitting: Inviting Contemplative Practice to the Craft. "While in that space, knitters can simply be still and quiet."

Unlike other mind-body forms of stress relief, knitting can be practiced nearly anywhere. So while you may not feel like bending back into Camel Pose in a crowded airport, you can pull out your knitting needles whenever you need a moment of calm.

If you're new to knitting or your needles are rusty, pick up Knit Wit: 30 Easy and Hip Projects by Amy Singer to help you master the basics. Or get some guidance from a local knitting circle; to find a group near you, visit knitting.meetup.com.