In the weave of existence, challenges inevitably arise—moments that knot our journey with difficulty. For Elle Levins, founder of Beyond the Knots, these knots became gateways to self-discovery and a deeper appreciation for life's imperfections.
Inspired by her own struggles with mental health, Elle turned to macrame as a means of expression and healing. Beyond the Knots, born from an incredible mental health journey, celebrates acceptance and creativity in the face of adversity.
Elle's artwork carries a message of resilience and understanding, challenging societal stigmas surrounding mental health.
Question: Can you describe a moment when you realized you needed to address some issues?
Answer: Yeah, I was having overwhelming thoughts that were deeply distressing. I have a strong awareness within myself, but it scared me when I realized something was seriously wrong. I talked to my husband about it, and he said we need to fix it because I can't be there for my family if I'm not okay myself.
Question: That sounds like a tough realization. Can you explain why it was so challenging for you?
Answer: Well, I've always had this sensitivity to rejection, this fear that people would reject me for reasons beyond my control. And on top of that, there were financial concerns, my insurance wasn't covering what I needed, and then there was the added stress of COVID. Everyone was at home, constantly around me, and it felt like all the coping mechanisms I had subconsciously developed just weren't working anymore. Emotions were heightened, we were all stuck in the same place, and it was overwhelming. I felt like I was going to implode and explode all at once.
Question: Can you describe your experience making it into treatment?
Answer: The first week of treatment was really tough for me. I had this overwhelming sense of shame, constantly asking myself why I was there instead of taking care of my family at home. Even though I knew I needed help, it felt connected to deeper issues I was facing.
Question: What was it like going back home after treatment?
Answer: Well, when you return home from treatment, there’s this expectation that everything will be better. But it’s not usually the case. It’s tough because during treatment, you’re dealing with all your issues. But four weeks isn’t enough time to solve everything. So, when you return home, it feels like all these problems have exploded, and you can’t just put them back in a box. You have to adjust to this new situation. Plus, being away from the treatment environment, where everyone understands and uses similar tools, makes it even harder. Suddenly, you’re back where you were struggling, with tools that no one else understands. That is where macrame came into play. It became a healthy way for me to cope. Being artistic and having something to focus on helped me sort through my thoughts.
Question: What would you like to leave our readers with?
Answer: That saying, “it’s okay to not be okay” is true. You’re not alone in your struggles, no matter where you are in life. It’s important to accept your story and be open about it because that’s what shapes you. Denying your struggles won’t help you heal. Everyone goes through tough times, and someone out there can understand you. I want to be relatable, not preachy. I’m still working through my own mental health issues, so I’m not completely healed. I’m right there with you in this journey. Despite the challenges, there’s beauty in pushing forward and doing the work. Keep at it. I’m learning to accept the knots because every knot is part of a beautiful whole. There is a lot of light in us if we can only look Beyond the Knots.
Elle's vision for Beyond the Knots is clear—to illuminate the path to self-acceptance, one knot at a time. Through her art and engagement with others, she fosters a community of support and compassion, inviting us all to embrace life's twists and turns with grace.
You can find Elle Levins with Beyond the Knots on Instagram @_beyondtheknots_ and in retail at Lamb & Co, Salish Lodge, and Black Beryl Vintage Company.
I’m still working through my own mental health issues, so I’m not completely healed. I’m right there with you in this journey.
That saying, “it’s okay to not be okay” is true. You’re not alone in your struggles, no matter where you are in life. It’s important to accept your story and be open about it because that’s what shapes you.