Here at FeelGood Fibers, we talk a lot about things like self-care, positive affirmations, and creating with intention.
But what are we talking about when we say that it’s important to “create with intention”?
Creating with Intention
It might sound like a complicated concept, but in fact it’s quite simple.
Creating with intention means creating with awareness.
Rather than doing things out of rote habit — possibly while multitasking (watching tv, eating a snack and trimming HSTs) — we make ourselves fully present in what we are doing at that moment. We take the time to remove distractions so we can fully focus on the task and the desired outcome.
In this practice, we are taking the act of creating down to its basics. This is not to say that creating with music blasting and a side of popcorn doesn’t have it’s place! But, when we take time to create with intent, we are practicing a form of mindfulness while engaging in the craft that we love. Think of it like quilting yoga! Sometimes you want to dance and other times you want to feel centered. Both are essential to a well-balanced life!
We believe creating with intention matters in all aspects of being a creator. This includes fabric purchases, project selection, and the environment in which we create.
How Can I Get Started?
One way to get started is to bring your awareness to your breath before you begin sewing. Light a candle or some incense to bring your attention to what you are about to begin. Plant your feet firmly on the ground. Close your eyes and take some slow, deep breaths in and out. Then address the task that you are about to perform. Say to yourself “I am aware that I am sewing.” Or, “I am aware that I am trimming HSTs for a quilt for _____”. Another way to practice is by creating a mantra for yourself to repeat as you sew. For example, “With each stitch I say a prayer for peace.” “With each stitch I bring healing energy to _____.” There are so many ways to be present and to be mindful. And there is no right or wrong way to do it. It is the intention behind the action that matters here.
Building a Practice Over Time
As you practice creating with intention while you stitch, you will get better and better at it. It will begin to feel natural to you, and will bring you clarity and stillness while you create. You can do this with as many tasks as you’d like, and it will infuse little bits of mindfulness throughout your day. You can infuse the purchase of fabrics and supplies with intention by shopping only for what you need, and aiming to shop secondhand first. You can select projects to work on with intention by waiting until you are ready for a project before purchasing or starting a new one. And you can bring intention to your environment by treating your sewing space as a sanctuary — knowing what you own, having a place for everything that you keep, and keeping a workspace that is easy to access and engage in your craft.
There are many ways to bring your purpose and presence to your creative practice, and you will discover the ones that are the most meaningful to you with practice.
We promise over time you will feel a transformation as you bring awareness to your craft. You will know yourself and your craft with greater intimacy. And it will foster a more authentic version of your creative self!
