CALM

Slow stitch invites us to tune into our bodies and experience a state of calm during our otherwise busy day-to-day lives. The rhythmed pace of the needle moving through layers of cloth meters and stills our breath, and can be deeply grounding amid feelings of stress and anxiety. It can be especially beneficial for those who otherwise struggle to sit still and “meditate” amid countless distractions, as the ritual of handiwork, while grounding, also feels productive enough for restless minds to accept.

CREATIVITY

Besides inviting a state of calm, which promotes creative free-flow, slow stitch allows us to let go of the fear of “making a mistake.” By engaging with the process versus fixating on the outcome, we cultivate forgiveness for our perceived errors, realizing that even the so-called flaws translate to something dynamic and beautiful. Tangled threads, misshapen knots and puckered surfaces are honoured as part of the process, and not viewed as mistakes to be corrected. The opportunity to let go of perfection ushers in new waves of inspiration, and we grow increasingly bold, letting our creative sparks alight.

COMPASSION

Our mental landscape is often cluttered with competing demands, making it difficult at times to reconcile difficult or challenging situations. When engaged in the calming practice of slow stitch, we make space in our minds to allow our thoughts to flow more freely, which can lead to realizations and solutions we can’t otherwise access. Keeping a notebook nearby as we stitch allows us to jot down these passing thoughts so they can be captured for later while keeping our minds open to receive. It’s remarkable the way our perspective shifts when we allow ourselves this space to receive.

Come join us at the beautiful W̱MÍYEŦEN Nature Sanctuary in Victoria, BC for a day of relaxation and creativity. Slow down and reconnect with yourself through the art of stitching. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this event is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and tap into their creative side.

Get ready to slow stitch your way to a more peaceful mind and a sense of calm. Let the serene surroundings of the sanctuary inspire you as you work on your project. Meet like-minded individuals and enjoy a day of creativity and relaxation.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to pause and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Join us on Sun Apr 28 2024 at 10:00 AM and allow yourself to experience firsthand the benefits of cultivating a slow stitch practice. For more information, and to register, visit this link.

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What exactly is slow stitch?

Megan from Thread Spells shares…

Slow stitch is a form of improvisational or intuitive hand stitching that enables us to let go of expectations. Instead, we’re invited to enjoy the sensory experience of combining colours, layers and textures with the steady, grounding rhythm of hand stitching.

The practice of slow stitch is relatively new and exists in many forms, borrowing from traditional modes of mending, as well as conventional embroidery techniques. There is no single way to practice slow stitch; rather, the practice is meant to anchor us in the present moment by slowing our breath and mind, opening channels of creativity to new ideas and inspirations.

Some compare slow stitch to a form of art journaling, intended to support us through the experience of self-reflection. Others integrate the practice into their mending, quilting and machine sewing practices. No matter its application, slow stitch offers us a relaxing and versatile practice that connects us to our bodies and breath while engaging our creative spirit.

Join us for Wild Threads: Slow Stitch for Creativity and Calm on April 28, 2024, to experience firsthand the nourishing practice of slow stitch. For more information, and to register, visit this link.

Tomorrow, in part three, Megan shares the benefits of cultivating a slow stitch practice.

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What exactly is creative self-care?

As women, it is common to be consumed by the demands of daily life – juggling parenting, household tasks, relationships, and excelling in our professions. Our days are spent meeting the needs of others, often resulting in feelings of being overwhelmed, stressed, and exhausted.

I strongly believe that it is our responsibility to nourish our souls by embracing joy and happiness. In my experience, taking a break to create, not only brings a sense of calm, it also rejuvenates your spirit.

By feeling relaxed and energized, you gain the strength to manage your responsibilities more effectively while pursuing personal growth, following your passions, and working towards your dreams.

I love what Candi from Be Your Better You writes about creative self-care.

Taking care of yourself is an essential part of life. Creative self-care means actively engaging in activities that bring you joy, fulfillment and peace.

When we nurture our creative spirit, we are taking steps to create a better version of ourselves and express our true potential. You can express creative self-care through activities such as drawing, painting, writing, crafting or dancing – anything that brings you joy.

Creative self-care can also simply mean being mindful of the small moments by taking time away from the hectic pace of life to relax and spend quality time on you! Slow down to carve out some time for your creative passions and enjoy them comfortably at your own pace.

How creative self-care became a part of my experience?

The women in my family – my grandmother, mother, and sister – have served as my creative inspirations since my early years. I have vivid memories of my grandmother's remarkable creativity, as she engaged in various artistic pursuits. From sewing garments, including hats that now embellish my daughter's sewing space and are worn during our tea parties, to crafting a leather purse that I proudly own. I often reminisce about a stunning coral-colored floral painting she created, its current whereabouts a mystery. Her talents extended to crocheting and creating delicate lacework, from intricate trims for her attire to elaborate lace tablecloths. Her creativity has profoundly influenced my own artistic journey.

Nearly three decades ago, I vividly remember dedicating hours to counted cross-stitch. This period coincided with a challenging chapter in my life. Being a single parent to two children for years, feeling drained, and facing a significant life change, I recall this activity brought me immense joy. It felt like a form of meditation and served as my self-care routine, providing a creative outlet for several consecutive days.

Having recently acquired my grandmother’s stash of vintage laces from my sister, and having always been a lover of embroidery and pretty fabrics, slow stitching seemed a perfect fit that I have embraced with open arms.

Engaging in intentional creative self-care activities can be highly gratifying. They not only add joy to your daily routine but also offer a fresh wellspring of inspiration each day. Don't hesitate – carve out some time for yourself today.

Join Megan, Thread Spells, and myself along with other women who share the desire for a day of relaxation and creativity at the beautiful W̱MÍYEŦEN Nature Sanctuary in Victoria, BC. Slow down and reconnect with yourself through the art of stitching. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this event is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and tap into their creative side.

Get ready to slow stitch your way to a more peaceful mind and a sense of calm. Let the serene surroundings of the sanctuary inspire you as you work on your project. Meet like-minded individuals and enjoy a day of creativity and relaxation.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to pause and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Join us on Sun Apr 28 2024 at 10:00 AM and treat yourself to a day of creative self-care and mindfulness. For more information, and to register, visit this link.

Keep an eye out for the second part of this series, What is Slow Stitch? where Megan shares more about the slow stitching practice.

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Come join us at the beautiful W̱MÍYEŦEN Nature Sanctuary for a day of relaxation and creativity. Slow down and reconnect with yourself through the art of stitching. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this event is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and tap into their creative side.

Get ready to slow stitch your way to a more peaceful mind and a sense of calm. Let the serene surroundings of the sanctuary inspire you as you work on your project. Meet like-minded individuals and enjoy a day of creativity and relaxation.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to pause and take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Join us on Sun Apr 28 2024 at 10:00 AM and treat yourself to a day of self-care and mindfulness.

What is slow stitch?

Intuitive stitch, also known as slow stitch or contemplative stitch, is the practice of hand stitching with no specific end goal in mind. Part embroidery, part abstract collage, intuitive stitch involves combining colours, layers and textures with the meditative rhythm of simple hand stitching as a nourishing ritual to ground, inspire and play.

Bring your imagination!

There are no rules in slow stitch. Rather, the process is designed to engage your creativity by letting go of expectation and celebrating what emerges. Seasoned embroiders and non-stitchers alike are invited to experiment, explore and create!

You deserve to feel special!

We'll take care of all the details so you can just sit back, breathe deeply and relax. There's nothing you need to bring except yourself, nothing to add to your to-do list. Lunch and coffee break refreshments will be provided.

If you have a special notebook where you jot down all your ideas and inspirations, or special materials you wish to incorporate or share, feel free to bring them along.

Agenda

Introducing your guides for the day.

I’m Megan.

I am a self-professed “fledgling creative,” engaged in the process of repairing and recultivating my creative journey through the nourishing ritual of intuitive stitch.

I struggle with labels, but I can tell you what I love: I love nature. I love walking in the forest and stroking moss and admiring droplets on leaves and smelling the earthy, deciduous must of the woods.

I love photographing. I love the illuminating slant of late afternoon light, freezing a moment in time, the exhilarating moment of translating what I see and feel with my being into something tangible.

I love art. I haven’t always loved my relationship with creativity and art, but I recognize the desire to create never ceases to be. I’m learning to love art again through the process of slow-stitch, the rhythm unwinding the tangles of my mind.

And I love magic, especially when I understood how simple it is. Connecting meaningfully with other people and beings, reveling in the beauty of my surroundings, alchemizing feeling into form.

You can visit me here on Instagram.

I’m Kathy.

I’m a multi-passionate creative, a joy inspirer, a workshop and retreat leader, a lifelong learner, and most importantly, a permission giver. I believe that every woman deserves to make herself a priority, and my work revolves around encouraging women to push the pause button on their busy lives.

As a maker of sacred spaces and a creator of sisterhood and community, these spaces are where women can come together, unplug from the chaos of the outside world, and feel peaceful, calm, and cozy. Gatherings provide a safe and welcoming container for light, playful fun, and adventure.

With a rich background as a skilled event planner, armed with 35 years of experience, I have worked with countless individuals and organizations, helping them in the development of community events. But what stands out the most about me is my passion for creating unique, welcoming, and safe spaces.

My gatherings are more than just events. They are sacred spaces that allow you to unplug from your busy lifestyle and dive into an environment that is peaceful, calm, and cozy. It's a place where you can let your guard down and connect with your inner joy.

I invite you to experience the transformation that can happen when you give yourself permission to pause, to prioritize yourself, and to fully embrace the joy of community and creativity.

You can visit me here on Instagram.

Megan & I have a very special day planned for you. We would love to have you join us on Sunday, April 28th in Victoria, BC. To register, click Wild Threads!

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To register, simply email hello@pausegatheringsforwomen.ca and I’ll save you a spot.

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Beeswax candles have some pretty amazing properties. Did you know they clean the air as they burn. They also smell amazing, and best of all, are easy to make. With this easy to follow DIY tutorial, you can make your own stylish candles, just like those made at my event Cultivate Your Christmas Calm!

Take some time to relax before the busy holiday season and recharge with some friends by planning a creative self-care date. Crafting candles can be a fun and easy activity, perfect for your holiday table or as a thoughtful gift for a hostess or Christmas stocking stuffer.

Create Your Own Holiday Manifesto

Last year I had the pleasure of attending a virtual Holiday Manifesto workshop presented by Shannon, Nourish Whole Person Coaching and her sister Jesse.

I’m so excited that they’re offering this fun, virtual experience again, and it’s all FREE. Shannon describes it as an opportunity to pause all the doing and actually focus in on your own hopes and dreams for the holiday season. What could be better!

It was a super fun experience which allowed me to start my holiday season with purpose.

Here’s the manifesto I created last year. Guess what! I experienced exactly what I’d hoped for.

Won’t you join me, along with some other fun loving, creatives, who believe in making themselves a priority.

Create Your Own Holiday Manifesto, Tuesday, December 5, 7:30 pm EST via Zoom.

For more information, and to register, visit Shannon here.

My wish for you is that you have an amazing weekend, giving yourself space to pause often.

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This fun craft involves several steps - kneading the clay with your hands until it's soft and pliable, rolling it out as if you were baking sugar cookies, cutting out shapes and finally adding unique touches like words using alphabet stamps or cedar sprig imprints.

To begin, prepare the rolling area by taping down two skewers about six inches apart on a hard, smooth surface.

These step-by-step directions for making air dry clay Christmas ornaments were adapted from a tutorial by On Sutton Place.

What do you have for Christmas breakfast? We’d love you to share your story. Leave a comment below.

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With Christmas just a little more than five weeks away, I’ll be featuring creative self-care projects for the next three weeks.

I believe it’s our personal responsibility to feed our souls, filling ourselves up with happiness and joy. My experience is that by pausing and spending time creating, you not only feel calm, you feel energized at the same time.

Being relaxed and rejuvenated you reclaim energy to handle your daily responsibilities with greater ease while also continuing to grow personally, moving in the direction of your own passions and pursuing your dreams. It's a win-win.

Gather some friends or family, or have a creative date with yourself - it doesn’t really matter. What matters is that you carve out some time to nourish your soul, especially at this busy time of year.

Sharing the Creativity from the Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Stations

I can't wait to show you what we came up with! The ladies visited the different DIY stations, and the creativity that emerged was truly exciting. Let’s channel our inner elves and see what we can make.

DIY #1: Christmas is in the air. Make a Felt Ball Car Diffuser and add your favorite holiday scent.

A Fun Idea to Try: Create Your Own Holiday Bucket List
Looking for ways to make the most of your holidays? Consider crafting a bucket list! So, what exciting experiences do you have planned this year? We'd love to hear all about them!

DOWNLOAD YOUR BUCKET LIST

I hope you make creative self-care a priority this weekend and throughout the week. Get ready to play with clay as I feature DIY#2 next Friday.

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I had the pleasure of hosting an event with Brenda and Megan, the co-founders of Two Drunk Witches. Eighteen women made a decision to prioritize themselves and hit pause. The evening covered the basics of self-care, with Brenda and Megan sharing their expertise on the therapeutic and healing properties of plant-based ingredients. What makes their botanical self-care line unique is their use of only natural and organic ingredients, promising a clean, simple, and joyful routine.

Craft a Personalized Keepsake Infused with the Healing Powers of Nature
Participants created and took home a unique and personal memento that harnesses the natural healing properties of herbs, florals, and essential oils. They were able to choose from an array of ingredients to create their very own customized bath soak.

Aside from sharing their bath soak recipe, Brenda and Megan also offered valuable tips and tricks to elevate the entire bathing experience. In the following sections of this newsletter, we'll explore their useful suggestions along with a few others.

What makes baths so special? Baths are a great way to find a moment of peace and quiet, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the present and unwind. Not only that, but taking a hot bath before bed can facilitate a deeper and more restful sleep.

Soaking in a hot bath also increases blood flow and circulation, which can help open pores, alleviate tense muscles, and even aid in detoxification. This is especially helpful when feeling under the weather and can be further improved with the addition of detoxifying and soothing ingredients.

In addition to the calming effects on the mind and body, baths can also serve as an excellent way to exfoliate and condition the skin, leaving it feeling soft and nourished.

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Take some time for yourself and indulge in a luxurious bath. Create an unforgettable experience that you'll want to revisit time and time again.

PS: Thanks to Brenda and Megan, Two Drunk Witches for all the magic they create. You can see their whole catalogue of products by clicking here.

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