There’s nothing quite as splendid as the pursuit of tranquility amidst a busy day. At Elizabeth Bradley, we believe that a regular self-care practice helps cultivate balance into our daily lives. So, we’re sharing some of our favourite ways to do it–with and without needlepoint. From the soothing embrace of being in nature to creative exploration, our aim is to help guide you towards a relaxing routine that can be enjoyed whenever you’d like. We encourage you to try some of these techniques and share your thoughts on social media. Meditate: Traditionally, we think of meditation as sitting still to connect the body and breath, but at its core, needlepoint is a meditative practice. Needlepoint crafting encourages us to slow down and savour the moment. Your focus naturally shifts towards the gentle movement of stitching. Go for nature walks: Studies have shown that our minds and bodies relax in natural, outdoor surroundings. Take a stroll around your neighborhood or local park, visit a nearby hiking trail, or walk along the beach–whatever you fancy is bound to help you unwind. You may just find that your nature walks inspire your next needlepoint project! Get creative: Creative activities like needlepoint, painting, writing, or knitting are a wonderful outlet for self-expression and relaxation. Each of these activities draws your focus to the creative process and releases endorphins, the happy hormone. Read: There’s nothing like getting lost in a good book! Whether it’s fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or a picture book, finding a quiet spot to read can transport you to another place and motivate you to try something different. Spend time with loved ones: Connecting with friends and family can be very powerful. Nurture your relationships by spending quality time together. Enjoy a leisurely meal, play a board game, head to the golf course, and revel in the precious moments together. Or, try connecting with other like-minded people who find joy in the same things you do. The EB Stitching Circle is a great place for aspiring and advanced needlepointers alike to start! Incorporate movement into your day: Exercise has all kinds of wonderful health benefits! Whether it’s speed walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, personal training, group fitness classes, or anything else, finding a routine that you enjoy makes exercise fun and exciting. These are just a few of our many ideas–we encourage you to find something that speaks to you so that you can continue to prioritise your well-being.
