The Banshees Sweater: A Vata Savior

Cozying up with a sweater and movie is perfect for home bound winters or Oceanside summers. Though a time-tested classic, The Banshees of Inisherin inspire the year-round sweater weather look. The sweaters, or jumpers, seen in the movie were knitted not by Gucci or North Face, but by an Ireland local, Delia Barry, who normally does it for charity.

The Aran knit is traditionally for fisherman, but has seeped into stylish everyday wear. Learning to knit at 7 years old, the 83-year-old Barry doesn’t see the excitement, but appreciates the need. Which is important, because some of us can’t ever shake the cold.

Temperature may be linked to mood disorders such as anxiety. It is largely accepted in Ayurveda that Vata-dominant doshas do not tolerate cold well.

The costumes in *The Banshees of Inisherin* included hand-knitted sweaters by local knitter Delia Barry.

Science

The inability to produce warmth internally increases anxiety. This may be through mitochondrial protein UCP-1 that mediates energy production by brown adipose tissue (BAT). Normally, in non-shivering thermogenesis, BAT essentially releases heat when cold is experienced. When UCP-1 is decreased or dysfunctional, anxiety increases.

Vata-dominant types have little fat, which may explain why they are more prone to anxiety and fear. BAT communicates with the brain on neural and hormonal levels which are governed by Vata and Pitta doshas, respectively. Though still in need of conclusive studies, UCP may also be in the hypothalamus and amygdala regions that control emotions. Epinephrine and norepinephrine also help to manage temperature, anxiety and fear responses.

Aran fishermen with traditionally knitted sweaters. The technique partnered with specific wool blocks wind and cold from coming through. The costume department for *Banshees* was inspired by these outfits.

Bottom Line

While Banshees was not nominated for costumes at the 95th Academy Awards, the classic knits and the backstory make this movie a style winner. It also gives an excuse to grab a knitted sweater and head to a new season. The constant unpredictable weather will allow it to be worn all year. Vatas will be happy.

The Aran sweater pictured above is knitted in Ireland and beautiful in cold weather.