Rose Swan Cross Stitch Kit

I love cross stitching and I have been doing it since I was a kid, it relaxes me so much and makes me happy. 

Why is cross stitch so relaxing?

Stitching requires you to be mentally present and concetrate fully on the task in hand, thus clearing the mind of any stress or worries (mush like yoga or meditation). Hand-eye coordination is always great for our minds and keeping our hands and fingers flexible. 

When our minds are responsive, we naturally feel more alert and being able to create something from scratch provides such a sense of achievement. There is something wonderful about looking at a finished piece and proudly saying "I did that". Other benefits include an improvement in cognitive, emotional and social wellbeing. Research carried out by the Royal United Hospital Bath concluded that cross stitch has a neurochemical effect on the brain by decreasing stress hormones and increasing feel-good serotonin and dopamine. 

Here are 11 reasons why cross stitch is good for you and contributes significantly to your well-being.

1. 1. Stress Buster: With each thread you sew, the stresses of life start to fade away. It's your own little therapy session!
   2. Boosts Creativity: It offers a creative outlet that stimulates your brain and encourages innovative thinking.
   3. Improves Concentration: It helps enhance your ability to focus, making it a fantastic activity to keep your cognitive skills sharp.
   4. Enhances Hand-Eye Coordination: The intricate designs and patterns of cross stitch work wonders on your hand-eye coordination. The constant movement of the needle between your hand and the fabric develops fine motor skills.
   5. Fosters a Sense of Achievement: When you complete a cross-stitch project, the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled. 
   6. Encourages Patience: Cross stitch isn't a race; it's a journey. The process of creating a masterpiece stitch by stitch promotes patience and perseverance.
   7. Promotes Social Bonding: Cross stitch isn't necessarily a solitary activity. Join a cross stitch club, attend workshops, or participate in online communities. It's a great way to meet like-minded people and make new friends!
   8. Nurtures Skills for Life: The focus, patience, and meticulousness required in cross stitching are skills that translate to many other aspects of life. 
   9. Preserves Tradition: Cross stitching is an age-old craft that has been passed down generations. By engaging in it, you're preserving a beautiful tradition and keeping the art form alive.
   10. Inexpensive Hobby: You don't need a lot of expensive materials to start; just a needle, threads, and a piece of cloth!
   11. An Outlet for Expression: Cross stitch allows you to express your thoughts, feelings, and personality. You can choose patterns and colours that reflect your personal style, making each piece a unique work of self-expression.

So, for all the reasons above grab your kit now and join in the fun world of cross stitching!