As a shepherd-turned-business owner, my days can be extremely hectic. But I always try to find time for my mental health. Especially once lambing season arrives, it’s just too easy to let the “hustle” take over!
Thankfully, my business is centered around the fiber arts. That means I have to make time for needle-felting … which is such a lovely, mindful activity! It always helps me unwind, no matter how crazy the rest of my life is.
Still, there are times when it’s hard to get away and pick up my projects. I’m sure you’ve had that challenge as well. But it’s so important to make time for ourselves, especially for a creative, activity such as needle felting. It truly benefits your well-being, both mentally and physically!
Here are some ways you can make time for felting:
Block out a craft hour
Depending on your work, school, or family commitments, you might have a packed schedule. One thing leads to the next, then the day’s over!
I recommend setting aside some time every day to work on your needle-felting (or other fiber arts!) Set an alarm, and when it goes off, put down your work, turn off your phone, and just spend some time with your projects. The world will be waiting when you return, I promise! This helps your brain break out of “busy mode” and activate those calming theta waves!
Needle-felt on your breaks
If you can’t set aside a whole hour, how about 15 minutes? In the Pomodoro method, you work for 45-60 minutes, then take a short break. After a few hours, you’ve earned a 15-minute break. What better time to make a bit of progress on your needle-felting project? Something like my pumpkin kit is super-easy and fun.
You’ll unwind, reset your brain, and have some fun… so you can get back to your crazy day with a bit more energy!
Take a needle-felting staycation
Burnout is increasingly common in our fast-paced society. This is sad news as burnout has been linked to depression, anxiety, and heart disease. And because many of us find it hard to unplug, we don’t recover from burnout even on our days off!
The solution is to take a staycation. Instead of vegging in front of the TV thinking about work, spend some time on fiber-arts projects. It’s a wonderful way to dial back the stress and keep your focus on a nourishing activity. Needle-felting is ideal because it’s rhythmic and creative, yet relaxed. This has similar effects to meditation.
Gift yourself this beginner’s kit that includes several easy projects, and spend the week felting away!
Psst — if you’d like some support as you decompress, you can get the staycation feel and still get out of the house by coming here! Nome Schoolhouse is like a home away from home, right down to the scratch cooking.
Wrapping Up
What do you think? Can you make some time for your projects — and therefore your well-being? Remember, self-care isn’t selfish. You need some time to unwind with an enjoyable activity. And needle-felting is a delightful option. It has definitely helped me stay resilient and protect my mental health, even when life gets stressful.
If you need some project inspiration, check out my favorite felting ideas for fall. I also love to work on holiday gift ideas, such as this adorable felted pouch.
New to needle-felting? It just might be the mindfulness activity you need! Here’s a starter kit with my favorite wool and needles. You can get tutorials, advice, and more in my Needle Felting Academy.
Learn to Needle Felt the Easy Way!
Join the Bear Creek Needle Felting Academy today!
