Released on = August 17, 2007, 12:21 pm

Press Release Author = Lion Brand Yarn

Industry = Apparel & Fashion

Press Release Summary = Knitting and crochet enthusiasts are smiling because their
hobbies may have the added benefit of helping their minds and bodies

Press Release Body = Manhattan, New York - August 17, 2007 - Have you ever wondered
why people who craft yarn into garments always seem to be smiling and happy? It
turns out that the repetitive actions needed for knitting and crochet can bring the
mind and body to a state called a \"relaxation response\" that is quite similar to
what people experience with techniques such as repetitive prayer, yoga, meditation,
Tai Chi, and other relaxation disciplines. Research at the Harvard Medical School
Mind/Body Institute has found that when an individual is knitting her heart rate can
drop 11 beats a minute and her blood pressure drops as well. These results can have
significant health benefits for people who knit and crochet.

In the U.S. many institutions are taking advantage of these health benefits by
incorporating knitting and crochet into the activities that they provide. Gilda\'s
Clubs which offers family cancer support in locations across the U.S., now provide
knitting to help with the emotional upheaval of dealing with cancer. At the Duke
Diet and Fitness Center, knitting is used to lower stress for its clients. Children
and their parents are seeing the benefits of knitting and crochet as well. Grade
schools from Oregon to New Jersey have incorporated knitting into their curriculum,
not only for the health benefits, but to help build creativity and improve math
skills.

\"Knitting benefits an individuals emotional and physical health. Knitting can reduce
stress in an individual who is trying to manage the severity of their chronic
illness. It can also help reduce stress in individuals who lead very hectic
lifestlyes.\"said Gary Scholar, Health & Wellness Consultant to the employees of the
American Hospital Association. \"I have incorporated knitting classes in my Health &
Wellness programs for employees because of the health benefits. I would like to see
implemented at Children\'s hospitals a program to teach sick children how to knit so
they have something to keep their minds occupied and be proud of what they have made
if they are in the hospital for an extended time,\"

A new children\'s book ANGORA, I\'m Knot Just Fluff I\'m Always Enough was recently
published by Scholar about a bunny who is taught by her mother and grandmother how
to knit using magic carrot knitting needles to give her self esteem to dance in her
dance recital.

\"For many years we\'ve heard stories and witnessed how knitting and crochet have
positively affected people's lives. We once asked our customers to share their
stories of how knitting and crochet have changed their lives on our website, and to
date, we've received over 500 touching and personal submissions \" said Ilana
Rabinowitz of Lion Brand Yarn. \"It has only been in recent years that studies have
brought to light the mental and physical benefits that crochet and knitting
enthusiast can look forward to while participating in this wonderful hobby.\"

For more information on learning to knit and crochet, visit the Lion Brand Web site
at http://www.lionbrand.com

About Lion Brand Yarn Company
Lion Brand Yarn Company is a 129-year-old entity and is America\'s oldest hand
knitting yarn brand. Founded in 1878, the company began operation in New York and
has been a leading supplier of quality hand knitting and crochet yarns ever since.
Throughout its history, Lion Brand Yarn has been at the forefront of yarn trends
while consistently providing its customers with the highest quality product, service
and inspiration.

Media contact:
Ilana Rabinowitz
(201) 804-3999
Ilana@lionbrand.com

Web Site = http://www.lionbrand.com

Contact Details = Media contact:
Ilana Rabinowitz
(201) 804-3999
Ilana@lionbrand.com