Slow Stitching

When you hobby becomes your business, you need another hobby.

Anon

Yesterday I was becoming overwhelmed. spiralling into overthinking and the negative self talk and self doubt was sneaking it’s way back into my thoughts.

I’m at the pointy end of organising a retreat for 30 plus creative souls. I’m pressuring myself to post to my YouTube channel. I’m stressing about money and looking at the ever increasing business overdraft with despair. The negatives are pushing to the top of the thoughts and the positives sinking.

I know I’m getting so much better because yesterday I knew I needed to STOP the cycle. I knew I needed to put the breaks on and practice the skills I had learned in DBT.

I rang my friend Kate and asked for help. I talked through my concerns and Kate helped me find some solutions. Together we came up with a plan of action. After the call I made my list and ticked off a couple of jobs. I took action, rather than worrying. I made the pumpkin soup and cooked the chicken for the sandwiches. I searched and found the box of needle felting supplies that I had spend more time worrying about than it took for me to find,

I put down my knitting. A sock I’m designing for the blog and filming for YouTube. And I dug out my slow stitching. I changed my activity and took time to do something I enjoy for fun.

I attended a couple of my twelve step meetings and meditated on the readings as I stitched and found fellowship in the sharing.

And now I am so PROUD of myself because I used the skills I’d been taught and turned what could of been a not so good day into a great day.

Have you tried slow stitching yourself ?

Slow stitching is a form of hand sewing that involves taking your time, focusing on the present moment, and creating something beautiful through the repetitive motion of needle and thread. I find that slow stitching has a calming effect it helps reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

Research has shown that engaging in creative activities like slow stitching can boost mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall well-being. By taking a break from work, screens and technology, and turning our attention to the simple act of stitching, we give our brains a chance to rest and recharge.

Slow stitching can also foster a sense of mindfulness, as we pay close attention to the details of each stitch and the tactile sensations of the fabric and thread. This mindful focus can help us to feel more grounded, present, and connected to our inner selves.

Why not give slow stitching a try. You may be surprised at how much it can benefit your mental health and well-being.