Mindful embroidery is the process of embroidering with the focus on being present and focusing on one stitch at a time. This can be either just focussing on the colours or the stitches, the direction of the stitches or simply the process in itself.
Its the intent on quietening the mind, while creating something with your hands, resulting a calming and meditative experience.
The Benefits of of embroidery:
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Stress reduction - The repetitive motion of embroidery stitches, whether you're working with chain stitch, satin stitch or any kind of stitch, can be soothing and meditative. The repetitive motion can divert your attention, promoting relaxation.
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Mindfulness and presence - By being present in the moment, this awareness is a powerful tool for managing anxiety and improving overall mental health. By focusing on the stitch you are creating whether it be a back stitch, chain stitch or which ever stitch you are creating, this will create a state of mindfulness.
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Enhanced creativity - Exploring various designs, or completing a embroidery kit can be a rewarding experience. The act of stitching helps improve cognitive function and problem solving skills, which can also give a sense of achievement.
- Creative expression and personal fulfilment - By having the time and space to embroider regularly, you will develop your own style of stitching, or preferred ways of embroidering. You will see your work improving all the time, the most important thing to remember its its about the journey not the destination. Embroidery is a slow craft and you may not be great at first. But that's okay as you will learn from your mistakes and improve.
How to get started with mindful embroidery.
Choose the right embroidery kit - If you are new to embroidery, I would recommend a beginners kit, to get you started.
Find Inspiration - Look for the designs and patterns that you like, or that resonate with you. Whether its autumn embroidery, mushroom embroidery ( my personal favourites) or nature inspired embroidery. Find something that excites you and motivates you.
Create a quite and comfortable space - When deciding where you are going to sit to do you embroidery, make sure it is a comfortable and fairly quiet space. Even if its only for 10 minutes, having that space will create a sense of calm straight away. Consider lighting a candle or incense stick, this will help make it cosy too.
Join a embroidery workshop - consider joining a workshop in your local area, ( I plan to run online workshops soon) This can help build your skills and you can meet like minded people and gain a sense of community.
Practice regularly - By practicing regularly, you will build your skills over time. You will get to know what stitches you like and don't like. Or which are your preferred stitches and colours. By regularly embroidering you will deepen your engagement with the craft.
Mindful embroidery is more than just a hobby; it’s a pathway to reducing stress, enhancing mindfulness, and fostering creativity. By incorporating this art form into your life, you can find a soothing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, all while creating beautiful and meaningful works of art. Whether you’re using an embroidery kit subscription, exploring new embroidery patterns, or gifting DIY embroidery creations, mindful embroidery offers a fulfilling and relaxing way to enhance your mental well-being