http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7896441.stm

I am a BBC news addict.  They posted an article on Wednesday, February 18, 2009, about how “Knitting can delay memory loss.” Just what I need, another excuse to knit!  Upon reading the article I have to agree with it for a number of reasons.  One, it seems like with every project I spend the first part of the project doubting it will work.  I think of all the reasons why it won’t work - is my gauge swatch really right (guage swatches are liars sometimes), is this yarn going to work, how am going to change what ever it is in the pattern I don’t like and is going to look right, will I look like a pickle in this sweater, etc….  Then I have to do math (terror for us liberal arts majors) and wonder if my knitting instinct is correct.  All this requires critical thinking skills which help in keeping one’s memory.  Second, knitting is also a great way to relax.  Once you get into the groove all the stress seems to go away.  Third, I have a great knitting buddy and even though we don’t always get a lot done we have a good time gossiping, sharing laughs, and using each other as sounding boards.  And finally it makes me take time out for myself -I get to do something that I enjoy!  So keep your mind sharp by knitting!!