In today’s fast-paced and digitally driven world, many Australians are seeking ways to slow down and reconnect. Interestingly, one of humanity’s oldest creative practices—weaving is proving to be a powerful way to support mental health and wellbeing.
Weaving has deep roots across many cultures, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. For them, it is both a practical skill and a deeply spiritual tradition. In modern Australia, it is being embraced not just as a cultural expression, but also as a therapeutic activity.
The Mindful Rhythm of Weaving
The gentle, repetitive nature of weaving has a calming effect on the nervous system. The physical motions—threading, looping, and creating patterns can induce a meditative state, encouraging focus and relaxation. According to the team at Thread Collective, weaving can be a mindfulness practice that nurtures mental clarity, calm, and emotional balance.
Engaging in such mindful activity can be helpful for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress. The act of weaving helps direct attention away from intrusive thoughts and toward the present moment. It encourages flow, a psychological state linked to increased happiness and reduced stress.
Strengthening Cultural Identity and Social Connection
Weaving is not just a solitary pursuit. It has traditionally been done in groups, bringing people together to share stories, pass on knowledge, and form bonds. For Aboriginal Australians, weaving holds cultural significance as a method of passing down tradition, expressing identity, and healing trauma.
A prime example of how this cultural practice supports wellbeing is the One Billion Stars project. Started in response to violence in the community, this initiative invites people from around the world to weave stars as symbols of light, hope, and solidarity. According to their article on 8 reasons why weaving is good for mental health, participants often report feelings of empowerment, peace, and reconnection.
Weaving allows people to reconnect with their roots, which is a powerful step in identity-building and mental recovery. It also encourages cross-generational engagement, as elders pass skills and stories to younger generations, fostering mutual respect and resilience.
Weaving and Psychology: Blending Traditional and Modern Approaches
Australia is at the forefront of integrating traditional Indigenous practices with contemporary mental health therapies. A recent study, “Weaving Wayapa and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT),” explored how combining the Aboriginal wellbeing practice of Wayapa with CBT could support social and emotional health. This integrative approach was found to enhance engagement and outcomes, particularly among Indigenous Australians facing systemic mental health disparities.
Likewise, the University of Southern Queensland has been exploring the intersection of traditional arts and wellbeing through its “Weaving Wellbeing” podcast series (unisq.edu.au). The series shares insights from artists, therapists, and community leaders who use weaving as a form of psychological and cultural healing.
These findings align with principles from the Mental Health Council of Australia’s report Weaving the Net, which advocates for community-based approaches that incorporate culture and creativity to promote resilience and wellness.
Accessibility and Inclusion in Weaving
One of the most beautiful aspects of weaving is that it is accessible. It doesn’t require expensive materials or technical knowledge to get started. Simple star weaves, circular weaving on cardboard looms, or even fabric scrap projects can be engaging for beginners and therapeutic for those with mental health challenges.
In aged care and community centres, weaving is increasingly being used as a group therapy activity. It’s also proving valuable in NDIS programs, offering a non-verbal way for participants to express themselves. Creative engagement like this boosts confidence, reduces isolation, and gives a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
For Australians looking to integrate creative practices into daily life, A.S.A.G. offers resources and support around holistic wellbeing for older adults, including lifestyle tips and tools to stay connected and mentally engaged.
Starting Your Own Weaving Practice
Whether you’re looking for a personal mindfulness practice or a way to connect with others, weaving is a great place to start. Here are a few tips:
- Start simple: Begin with basic materials such as wool, paper straws, or recycled textiles.
- Join a group: Look for local weaving or craft circles through community centres or online.
- Explore your heritage: Learn about traditional weaving practices from your cultural background.
- Make it meaningful: Weave with purpose—each pattern or colour can represent a memory, a feeling, or a story.
The beauty of weaving is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Each creation is unique, just like each journey to wellbeing.
Tying it All Together
Weaving is more than a craft—it is a pathway to mental clarity, cultural pride, and community healing. For many Australians, it is becoming a gentle yet powerful ally in the pursuit of better mental health. Whether practised in solitude or with others, weaving offers a meditative, creative space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect.
As we continue to address mental health challenges nationally, especially in the wake of the pandemic and rising cost-of-living pressures, embracing accessible and culturally relevant practices like weaving is more important than ever.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For personal mental health concerns, please consult a qualified health professional or therapist.