Stitching for Relaxation

Down time is something that we all need and we, as stitchers have a head start on this. We know how important it is to make time for things that matter to us. We know how enjoyable the rhythmic motion of thread through fabric feels. We know the joy of creating something beautiful and we make time for all of this. Stitching is, I believe, naturally relaxing but how can we maximize on its benefits to calm our minds? How can we make the most of our stitching time and really leave it feeling revived and more energized than before?

Here’s a few tips from Mindful Stitching HQ, where relaxing stitching is always the order of the day!

Great surroundings

This week we enjoyed some rare sunshine in the UK and it was warm enough to sit out in the evening and enjoy some stitching. Stitching in nature gives double benefits I believe. The stitching relaxes you but so do the sounds of nature around you. Can you escape off for n hour or two a stitch somewhere extra beautiful? Or can you make the view from your favourite stitching place and inspirational one? Where I stitch I surround myself with projects I have completed. I find it inspiring and joy making. Where I stitch truly transforms my experience.

The Perfect Drink

Whether it is a special tea, your favourite flavoured coffee or perhaps even a chilled glass of wine, there is something so special about sitting down with something delicious to accompany your stitching. While you are savouring that drink you will also wind down and savour your stitching time.

A Relaxing Pattern

Some patterns lend themselves to truly relaxing and mindful stitching more than others. Sometimes it is great to take on a challenge but other times you might simply want to sink into your stitching, to enjoy the rhythm of it and the feel of the needle in your hand. If this is your goal then you might consider patterns that focus on a few key colours and shapes. Perhaps even go for a scene that makes you feel serene and relaxed. That is what we aim to do with all our patterns at the Mindful Stitching Company. We focus on blocks of beautiful colour in our patterns and designs that evoke peaceful and happy times to bring you that sense of calm you are looking for in your stitching.

Slow Right Down

​Sometimes we are all chasing that elusive finish. When I’m feeling this way I can suddenly find that my shoulders are all tense and I’m hunched up in my chair. I’m not relaxing at all! I leave those sessions feeling more anxious than I began, the opposite of the goal of my stitching time. Instead I try to remind myself to breath deep, stitch slow and enjoy the process.
 
Follow these tips and you’ll be blissfully stitching in no time and that, after all, is what we are all seeking and what you very much deserve.

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