Slow Stitch: A Creative Self-Care Practice
A three-part series: creative self-care, what is slow stitch & the benefits of this practice.
Welcome to the first part of a series on incorporating slow stitch into your creative self-care routine.
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.
That's so interesting, Kathy - I've been reflecting too on how my mom and grandmother influenced my creativity as well. My grandma was a watercolour artist, and she kept a gallery of floral paintings on her living room wall, although I don't remember actually seeing her paint, as I believe she had stopped by the time us kids were around. I know my mom said she had a job once painting florals onto teacups, but wish I knew more!