Wrap over the hook, pull through one loop, wrap over again, pull through two loops.
As a self-taught crocheter, I rely heavily on this mantra to produce the most simple of patterns. Let’s be real. The self-proclaimed title, “crocheter” is a bit of a stretch! But the craft, despite my skill level, has stretched me. It has given me insight into intricate, intentional details I can easily overlook.
The name Interwoven Wellness was born out of a desire to illuminate all that makes us— humans— who we are. Too often, society limits us, boxing us in (or out) according to social standards. Many of us learn quickly which parts of us are welcome and what we need to keep hidden. Even then, it’s not that simple. Some of our identities are visible; hiding away is not an option. There are the parts of us we yearn to share with the world. To be asked or told what to leave behind disregards our agency; it makes us smaller, invalidates, and harms. People’s projected assumptions are tethered to a narrow understanding of “right” and “wrong,” “good” and “bad.” Of course, we all wear both hats: the one who projects and the one being projected on. When we hear a message loud and long enough, we may begin to believe it. And then there’s the parts of us we don’t even know.
Interwoven is about the beauty and messiness of it all. Of us all. We are shaped by biology, genetics, people, places, cultures, systems, the environment, and life-experiences. We learn, we unlearn, and we learn some more. We grow and evolve; and still, we can find ourselves stuck in old patterns. Even when we might know, “this isn’t working,” change can seem out of reach. Change can also steamroll - ready or not, it comes.
Wellness is a journey; one that invites curiosity and exploration. It is one that honors the fullness of our being - all parts! Everyone also has a core, authentic, grounded Self. It is the calm, steady center of who you are. There is a gay Irish poet, theologian, and conflict mediator named Padraig O’Tuama. I’m drawn to this line from his writing about his sacred morning ritual, “ I say hello to my chaos, my unmade decisions, my unmade bed, my desire and my trouble.” It’s as if he is saying, “Hello parts.” Maybe well-being is when we greet each interwoven thread within us. When we, from the energy of our core Self, say hello to it all - the truths we know well, and to the spaces we resist; when we turn inward and recognize our capacity for healing.
For Jen and I—co-founders— Interwoven Wellness represents our personal intersections of queer identity, spirituality, and mental health. We have both encountered the joys, struggles, trauma, freedom, and unknowns at these intersections. And yet, how different our paths have been!
What brings you to this moment?
Our physical and virtual door is open. Please, leave nothing at the door; bring it all. All of you is welcome.
There’s a secret about crocheting. Mistakes — missteps, the unexpected, outside the plan — don’t ruin the final product. Crocheting is the art of linking loops together. When you miss a loop, or skip a step, there is always an opportunity to course correct and continue. You don’t start over; it becomes part of the piece. Interwoven creations are, in fact, just like us: a whole lot of beautiful imperfections.
Until the next thread,
Elise
